Advisory issued for Yacht Club Beach

The Florida Department of Health in Lee County is advising the public not to enter the water at the Cape Coral Yacht Club Beach due to high levels of bacteria identified in routine testing. The beach park is located at 5819 Driftwood Parkway, Cape Coral, FL 33904.

According to the DOH, tests completed today, April 19, indicate that the water quality at the Yacht Club Beach does not meet the safety criteria for Enterococcus bacteria recommended by the Florida Department of Health. Water contact may pose an increased risk of disease, particularly for susceptible individuals.

It is recommended that there is no wading or swimming at the Yacht Club Beach.

Enterococcus bacteria normally inhabit the intestinal tract of humans and animals. The presence of an elevated concentration of these bacteria is an indicator of pollution, which may come from storm water runoff, pets, wildlife or sewage.

Elevated levels of Enterococcus bacteria have been associated with an increased risk of swimming-associated gastroenteritis illness (diarrhea and abdominal pain).

This advisory will continue until bacteria levels are below the accepted health level. New test results should be available for Yacht Club Beach Tuesday afternoon, April 24.

For more information call 239-274-2200 or go to lee.floridahealth.gov.