Swimming advisory issued for Holland Beach in St. Clair County due to elevated levels of E. coli

ST. CLAIR COUNTY, Mich. – A swimming advisory was issued for Holland Beach due to elevated E. coli levels in the water.

The St. Clair County Health Department issued an advisory on Aug. 5. Health officials said water samples will continue to be collected and tested.

E. coli bacteria are a common microbe found in the digestive systems of warm-blooded animals, including humans, and can show the presence of fecal contamination. Contact with recreational water poses the risk of waterborne illnesses. The health department advised the following actions to reduce the risk of waterborne illness:

• Do not swim in water that smells foul, looks murky or has floating foam
• Dispose of trash, animal waste, and boat waste properly
• Use the restroom before swimming
• Do not swim immediately after heavy rain when E. coli levels may be high
• Do not swallow lake water
• Vigorously towel off after swimming
• Wash hands with soap and water before eating
• Shower as soon as possible
• Avoid contact with recreational waters if you have open sores or wounds

The swimming advisory will be lifted once results fall within the acceptable range advised by the State of Michigan.