Melburnians are being warned to check the water quality of beaches before they swim this summer with La Nina potentially exposing swimmers to health risks more often.
Victoria’s Environment Protection Authority has warned La Nina could create more stormy days over summer, meaning the water quality in Port Phillip Bay could be compromised.
The usually pristine bay waters can sometimes carry unseen pollutants that could cause skin irritations and even gastro, which is exacerbated after periods of heavy rainfall.
The warning comes as the environmental watchdog launches its annual Beach Report forecasting service that keeps Victorians informed daily about the water quality in Port Phillip Bay from December 1 until after the Labour Day weekend in March.
The report covers 36 beaches from Portsea on the Mornington Peninsula to St Kilda and right around to Santa Casa near Queenscliff on the western side of the bay.
EPA chief environmental scientist Dr Andrea Hinwood wants all swimmers to the check the Beach Report forecast before putting a toe in the water.
“Victorians love their beaches. They’re great places to visit, but with such complex ecosystems they can sometimes be home to types of bacteria that pose health risks to swimmers,” Dr Hinwood said.
“A common swimmer-related illness is gastroenteritis. Children, the elderly and people with vulnerable immune systems are at the highest risk of getting ill from waterborne germs.”
Dr Hinwood advised people to see a doctor if they had a suspected illness after swimming.
“The best way for beachgoers and Yarra swimmers to avoid illnesses and to safely enjoy the coast and waterways this summer is to follow the advice in EPA’s forecasts,” Dr Hinwood said.
The Beach Report website warns people to avoid swimming near stormwater or river outlets in the 24 to 48 hours after heavy rain.
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