Dangerous Bacteria Forces Beach Closures in New York

A growing public health concern is prompting beach closures across New York and neighboring states as dangerously high levels of bacteria have made popular swimming spots unsafe.

In recent weeks, several beaches in and near New York were shut down due to water contamination.

Officials report elevated levels of harmful bacteria, particularly Vibrio, a pathogen that can cause serious illness.

Vibrio exposure can lead to symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, fever, and in severe cases, life-threatening infections, especially if it enters the body through open wounds.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the strain Vibrio vulnificus can be deadly, with one in five cases resulting in death, sometimes within just 48 hours.

Beaches affected in New York around the July 4th holiday included:

-Benjamin Beach in Bay Shore

-Ronkonkoma Beach in Islip

-Sayville Marina Park Beach in Sayville

-Morgan Beach in Glen Cove

-Biltmore Beach Club in Massapequa

The problem isn’t limited to New York. In Massachusetts, 19 beaches were closed due to similar bacterial overgrowth, including popular spots like Walden Pond in Concord and Long Beach in Rockport.

With bacteria thriving in warm, coastal waters, the risk of severe infection remains high during the summer months. Adhere to posted advisories at your local swimming location.

Dangerous Bacteria Forces Beach Closures in New York