Swimming Advisory Declared For Davis Islands, Picnic Island Beach

TAMPA, FL -- A health advisory has been issued for Davis Islands and Picnic Island beaches for high levels of bacteria. Swimming at those beaches should be considered a potential risk.

According to the Department of Health-Hillsborough County, samples of water taken July 25 at those beaches were above the threshold for enterococci bacteria. The beaches will be re-sampled on Wednesday, Aug. 1.

When re-sampling indicates that the water is within the satisfactory range, the advisory will be lifted.

The water samples were analyzed for enteric bacteria (enterococci) that normally inhabit the intestinal tract of humans and animals. It may cause disease, infections or rashes.

The presence of enteric bacteria is an indication of fecal pollution, which may come from storm water runoff, pets and wildlife, and human sewage.

For more information, visit the Florida Department of Health's Beach Water Quality website.

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