The Florida Department of Health in Pinellas County has issued a swim advisory for three local beaches after detecting elevated levels of harmful bacteria in the water.

The affected locations are Clearwater Beach near Mandalay Park, Sand Key Beach, and Indian Rocks Beach. Officials warn that swimming at these sites poses a potential health risk.

“This should be considered a potential risk to the bathing public, and swimming is not recommended,” the department stated.

Recent water samples from the beaches exceeded acceptable levels of enterococci bacteria, which are typically found in the intestines of humans and animals. Exposure to this bacteria can lead to infections, illness, or skin rashes.

Health officials say the bacteria’s presence suggests fecal contamination, which may result from sources such as stormwater runoff, wildlife, pets, or human sewage.

Residents and visitors with open cuts or wounds are advised to clean them thoroughly with soap and water and apply antibiotic ointment to reduce the risk of infection.

The beaches have been retested, and updated results are expected soon. The advisory will be lifted once water quality returns to safe levels.

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(Image credit: Associated Press)

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