E.coli warning issued for English Bay, Sunset Beach
Posted July 16, 2022 11:27 am.
Heads up if you were planning on a swim at some of Vancouver’s beaches.
E.coli warnings have been issued for English Bay and Sunset Beach, with both beaches listed as “not suitable for swimming” at this time.
Vancouver Coastal Health says readings at these two popular spots exceed the recommended guidelines, adding there’s an increased risk of illness to swimmers when the level of bacteria is higher than advised.
“The public is advised not to swim or wade in the water until the advisory is removed. Seniors, infants and children and people with weakened immunity are the most susceptible,” the health authority says on its website.
High E. coli counts can increase the chance of gastrointestinal illnesses as well as skin or eye infections.
The risk of getting sick increases if you swallow the water or get it in your nose, eyes, ears, or a cut.
Symptoms may include an upset stomach, ear or wound infection, or even a soar throat.
Trout Lake is also not suitable for swimming for similar reasons, with an advisory first posted on June 21.
