High E. coli levels at Nelson Mandela Bay beaches

ASC Public Health and Food Safety Consulting has cautioned holidaymakers to avoid certain beaches in the Nelson Mandela Bay area due to high E. coli levels detected in some coastal waters.

The firm conducted a study on beach water safety at five beaches within the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro, focusing on Faecal Streptococcus and E. coli bacteria as indicators of faecal contamination. 

Chumile Jezile, a public health consultant at the ASC firm, says that this is a widespread issue, particularly affecting coastal towns.

“It’s something that the whole country is facing, especially the coastal towns, so it took time for the municipality to do their study before they could close the beach. Even our study last year indicated the same thing—we were hoping to see some changes, unfortunately, there are no changes.” 

Jezile confirmed that New Brighton Beach should be avoided due to high E. coli and Streptococcus contamination levels.

“New Brighton Beach is a no, due to the high E. coli and Streptococcus contamination levels,” she stated. 

While Humewood Beach showed some varying levels during the trials, they were within acceptable limits. However, both Humewood and Colchester Beach remain areas of concern. “Humewood is a concern, and also Colchester Beach,” Jezile added. 

Holidaymakers are advised to be cautious and consider these warnings when planning beach visits in the Nelson Mandela Bay region.