Danger on the beaches: Health Ministry finds E. coli in 12% of water samples
18 June 14:34
The Ministry of Health of Ukraine warns that the water quality in a number of Ukrainian water bodies does not meet sanitary standards. According to the results of an inspection conducted from June 6 to June 12, more than 12% of the samples tested showed an excess of lactose-positive E. coli (LPC), which indicates a health hazard while swimming. This was reported by "Komersant Ukrainian" with reference to the Ministry of Health.
What the test results showed
Specialists from the laboratories of the regional centers for disease control and prevention of the Ministry of Health took 172 water samples from rivers and reservoirs within the official beach areas throughout Ukraine. Of these:
- 21 samples (12.2%) did not meet the standards for microbiological indicators, namely, the LKP index.
This means that the water contained elevated levels of E. coli, which is an indicator of fecal contamination.
In addition, 109 water samples were analyzed for chemical parameters, of which:
- 20 samples (18.3%) also did not meet the established standards.
What is the danger of E. coli in water?
The ingestion of E. coli into the human body – especially when swallowing water while bathing – can cause acute intestinal infections, which are accompanied by unpleasant and dangerous symptoms
- nausea, diarrhea
- dry mouth and throat;
- high fever, vomiting;
- cramping abdominal pain;
- decreased or absent urination is a sign of dehydration.
The Ministry of Health urges you to immediately consult a doctor if you experience the above symptoms, especially if they occur after a vacation on the water.
Weekly monitoring – how the system works
The Ministry of Health reminds that water quality control in public bathing areas is carried out regularly – every week, specialists from regional centers take samples for laboratory analysis. Bacteriological and chemical indicators that may pose a threat to public health are checked.
As a reminder, due to the introduction of martial law, restrictions imposed by local military administrations are in effect in all regions of Ukraine for security reasons. In particular, it is prohibited to visit forests and navigate certain watercraft on water bodies, etc.
