VILANO BEACH, Fla. – A swim advisory has lifted for Vilano Beach after high levels of fecal bacteria were found during saltwater beach monitoring last week, according to the Florida Department of Health in St. Johns County.
The latest lab test results show the water quality for Vilano Beach to be "Good" in meeting the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's science-based criteria for enterococci.
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Last week's finding was considered a potential health risk, and public bathing and swimming were not recommended, officials said. The bacteria may increase risk of human disease, infections or rashes, the Department of Health said. Officials said the fecal pollution can come from stormwater runoff, pets and wildlife, as well as human sewage.
The St. Johns County Health Department has been conducting saltwater beach water quality monitoring for six beaches on a seasonal bi-weekly basis from March through October as part of the Healthy Beaches Monitoring Program.
Anyone with questions should call the county's Department of Health at 904-209-3250.