Authorities Warn Of Gastro Risk at Vic Beaches After Storm

Authorities have warned people in Victoria of the risks of contracting gastroenteritis from Melbourne beaches, after human faeces was washed into Port Phillip Bay following the heavy storms.

On Monday, the Environmental Protection Victoria has revealed that 21 of the 36 beaches it monitors around the bay had poor water quality, which means that the water is not suitable for swimming. Unsafe beaches include St Kilda, Elwood and Frankston, plus more.

Anthony Boxshall of the EPA said that toxic waste, including human faecal matter, flowed into the bay following last week’s heavy storms and the more recent, lighter rainfall.

In an interview with ABC News 24, Dr Boxshall said that there were indicators in the water tests they conducted that suggest there was faecal contamination from a number of sources.

“It’s bird poo, it’s horse poo, it’s cow poo and it’s people poo. It is everything that washes in from the streets, and everything that comes out through the storm water system,” he said.

He explained that swimmers, particularly the elderly and children, who might ingest contaminated water have a higher risk of contracting gastroenteritis and other illnesses.

However, he said that beaches on the Mornington Peninsula south of Frankston are still suitable for swimming.

Dr Boxshall says the water should clear up in 24-48 hours if it doesn’t continue to rain.

Meanwhile, more tests will be done this week and results will be posted on the EPA website.

In March last year, Melbourne’s popular beaches were also hit by a similar gastro warning for 34 of the city’s beaches.

Source: Au.news.yahoo.com – Dailymail.co.uk – Herald Sun