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Beachgoers should avoid dirty beaches and water as these are more likely to contain fetal bacteria.
American Chemical Society – Large amounts of fetal bacteria were found on popular beaches after scientists analyzed several sand samples. Beachgoers should avoid contact with dirty water as these bacteria could lead to severe health problems.
Beaches will most likely be highly populated in the following period as many inhabitants prepare themselves for the summer holiday. However, scientists beg people to reconsider their choice as their favorite beaches might be contaminated with fetal bacteria.
This declaration was made based on the recent findings of the scientists at the Hawaii University at Manoa, after carefully measuring the levels of bacteria registered in sand and seawater. For this particular purpose, they have conducted microcosm experiment in their laboratories and they have reached the conclusion that beach sand and water contain large amounts of sewage.
More specifically, the sand is much dirtier than the water, even though we would be tempted to think the other way around. Results have shown that sand samples were 100 times more contaminated with poop bacteria than the seawater.
Scientists are now trying to determine the factors that have contributed to this fetal contamination of the beaches, but they say there are far too many possibilities. Based on the information they have managed to gather so far, it appears that great part of the poop bacteria comes from the garbage that is left behind by humans and animals, alike, as well as from storms and water accidents.
The study has further revealed that fetal bacteria in the sand takes much longer to decompose than sewage in the seawater. Researchers could not yet explain why this happens, but they believe the natural filter of the seawater prevents dirt from reaching alarming quotes.
Authorities claim beachgoers should be worried by the recent finding as fetal contamination could lead to serious health problems. Medical experts warn that patients, who get in contact with the said bacteria, might suffer from diarrhea, stomach aches and even hepatitis.
Scientists do not prohibit people to go to their favorite beaches; they have simply prevented them on the possible risks and recommended them to avoid infested areas. Authorities will also prompt “Keep out” signs in those regions where they think contaminations risks are much more increased.
The findings of the new study were published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology.
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