A popular east Windsor beach will be temporarily closed after tests uncovered a high E.coli count.
The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit announced Tuesday that due to a high bacteria reading, Sandpoint Beach will be closed until E.coli readings drop below a safe threshold.
The health unit said high E.coli levels may pose a health risk, as swimming in affected water raises the risk of contracting health problems.
"Certain types of bacteria found in water can cause a number of illnesses," read the health unit's official website. "The most common are stomach and intestinal illnesses such as vomiting and diarrhea, along with lung, eye, ear, nose, or throat infections or skin issues. Swallowing contaminated water is the main way you may get sick. Bacteria can also enter the body through the ears, eyes, nose, or through broken skin."
While Sandpoint Beach is closed completely, Mettawas Beach in Kingsville has a restricted status, meaning swimming is strongly discouraged due to elevated E.coli levels.
All of the other public beaches in Windsor-Essex are fully open for swimming.
For complete information about beach testing, and the latest E.coli numbers, visit the health unit's website.
