Where It Comes From
Human and animal feces, sewage overflows, failing septic systems, stormwater, and agricultural runoff [1][3].
How You Are Exposed
Swallowing or contacting contaminated beach, lake, or river water; occasionally through contaminated drinking water; eating raw or undercooked shellfish from polluted waters [1][3].
Why It Matters
Elevated enterococci are linked to gastrointestinal illness and ear, eye, and skin infections in swimmers; agencies issue advisories or close beaches when levels exceed health criteria [1]. Some Enterococcus species can cause serious infections in vulnerable people [2].
Who Is at Risk
Young children, older adults, pregnant people, those with weakened immune systems or open cuts, and wastewater/beach cleanup workers [2][3].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Check and follow beach advisories, avoid swimming after heavy rain, don’t swallow water, shower after swimming, keep wounds covered, pick up pet waste, maintain septic systems, follow boil-water notices, and cook shellfish thoroughly [1][2][3].
References
- [1]U.S. EPA. Recreational Water Quality Criteria, 2012.
- [2]CDC. Healthy Swimming: Recreational Water Illnesses.
- [3]WHO. Guidelines for Safe Recreational Water Environments, Vol. 1: Coastal and Fresh Waters.