More beaches on the popular holiday destination of Tenerife have been temporarily closed due to contamination, as reported by local news outlets. The Canarian Weekly said on Friday, May 9, that authorities in the southern part of the island have shut down two more beaches, marking the third such occurrence in less than 72 hours.
Earlier this week, officials in Granadilla de Abona closed La Jaquita Beach in El Médano after water quality tests revealed high levels of E.coli, a bacteria often associated with food poisoning. Adeje Council has since declared an “immediate suspension of swimming at Playa de Troya I and El Puertito” following further water testing in these areas.
The council stated: “This is a preventive step and we will reopen the beaches as soon as water quality levels are deemed safe for swimming.” While the beaches remain closed, both locals and tourists are advised to avoid the water and heed any posted signs.
E. coli is a bacterium typically found in the intestines of humans and animals.
The most dangerous strain, E. coli O157:H7, can cause severe illness. Symptoms, which usually appear 1 to 10 days after exposure, can include abdominal cramps, loss of appetite, severe diarrhoea, nausea and/or vomiting, fatigue, and a low-grade fever.
In certain cases, especially among children and the elderly, a complication known as haemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) can develop, potentially leading to kidney failure.