In preparation for the Fourth of July holiday, officials in at least 10 states have taken measures to address the issue of high bacteria levels in their beaches by either closing them or issuing warnings against swimming in the water. The closures are a response to the presence of bacteria from fecal waste and cyanobacteria, commonly known as blue-green algae, found in freshwater.

Several states including Florida, Illinois, Michigan, New Jersey, and New York have reported unsafe levels of fecal waste at certain beaches over the past week. Illinois has even issued advisories for 16 beaches due to this concern, while Michigan has announced two beach closures and five swimming advisories. Additionally, Vermont has identified six locations with excess amounts of cyanobacteria, leading the state to caution people against swimming there.

The closure of beaches across the country due to harmful levels of bacteria is not an uncommon occurrence. According to Environment America, an environmental research and policy center, more than half of the beaches tested in 2022 experienced at least one day with unsafe fecal contamination levels based on the Environmental Protection Agency's standards.

Swimming in waters with high bacteria levels can result in gastrointestinal illness and skin infections, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children, older individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. Moreover, research indicates that cyanobacterial algal blooms are increasing in frequency due to climate change, and exposure to them may contribute to long-term health issues. Cyanobacteria produce microcystin, a toxin that can potentially damage the kidneys, liver, or reproductive system if consumed in large quantities.

Recent observations have identified high levels of microcystin at two beaches and high levels of E. coli at five others in Iowa. Massachusetts, on the other hand, has closed 34 beaches primarily due to elevated levels of E. coli or enterococci, both of which indicate the presence of fecal waste. Massachusetts' Commissioner of Public Health, Robert Goldstein, attributes the spike in bacteria levels to heavy rainfall, which washes bacteria from the environment, including animal and human excrement, into bodies of water.

It is important for beachgoers to stay informed about changing bacteria levels, as they can fluctuate frequently. Goldstein advises people to regularly check their local health department's website for the latest updates on safe swimming areas and to be aware of any safety warnings at the beach. Additionally, individuals can play a part in minimizing the amount of bacteria they introduce into the environment by cleaning up after their pets and ensuring proper trash disposal to limit animal feces from contaminating the water.

While the current closures and warnings represent only a small fraction of the thousands of public and semi-public beaches across these states, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance in maintaining water quality and protecting public health. Authorities continue to work diligently to address the issue and ensure the safety of beachgoers during the holiday season and beyond.