High bacteria level at beach?

Question

Hi, just recently returned from vacation on St George Island in Florida. The 1st and 2nd day we were there a no swimming sign was out due to high bacteria levels. While there none of the locals seemed to have any info on the subject. Since returning I've looked up the info I had and have found out that the bacteria was enterococci and fecal cloriforms. My question is how serious are these bacteria and should I be concerned for the people in our group who went swimming. Some of the young kids (not mine) went swimming everyday.

Answer 1

There was a sewage spill. I live in Fort Lauderdale. It isn't good for tourism to make a big deal out of it, but the gov't has to close the beaches for legal and possible health reasons.

E Coli may not make you sick right away, but the chances of getting sick are small.

Answer 2

sounds like unsafe levels of raw sewage in the water.  odds are they will be fine but check for them being overly tired, loss of appetite or diarhia.  they should see a dr if they suspect problems.

Answer 3

i hope not