Sept. 1, 2023

LEE COUNTY – The Florida Department of Health in Lee County (DOH-Lee) is advising the public not to enter the water at Blind Pass/Turner Beach due to high levels of bacteria identified in routine testing. These beach parks are located at:

• 6491 Sanibel Captiva Rd, Sanibel, FL 33957
• 17165 Captiva Dr, Captiva, FL 33924

Tests completed on August 31, 2023, indicate that the water quality at Blind Pass/Turner Beach does not meet the recreational water quality criteria for Enterococcus bacteria recommended by the Florida Department of Health. Water contact may pose an increased risk of disease, particularly for susceptible individuals. Due to these risks, no wading or swimming at Blind Pass/Turner Beach is recommended.

Enterococcus bacteria normally inhabit the intestinal tract of humans and animals. The presence of an elevated concentration of these bacteria is an indicator of possible 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 Blind Pass/Turner Beach on Wednesday, September 6, 2023.

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