MICHIGAN

Some Michigan beaches are closed because of bacteria counts: How to check conditions

Portrait of Jalen Williams Jalen Williams
Detroit Free Press
  • The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) monitors beaches statewide and provides water quality information online.
  • Exposure to E. coli can cause gastrointestinal problems, which can be more severe for the very young, old and those with weakened immune systems.

State officials say several beaches in multiple counties across Michigan aren't fit for swimming this weekend because of high bacteria levels.

As of Thursday July 17, there are several Michigan beaches that are currently closed or under advisory due to high bacteria levels — likely from wildlife, according to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy, which provides that information via an online dashboard. They are:

County health departments routinely collect water samples for bacteria levels at beaches across the state to determine whether the water is safe for swimming, according to the EGLE.

To be considered safe for swimming, the E. coli counts must be below 300 per 100 milliliters.

Check the conditions of your local beach

The EGLE map lists information for beaches in Michigan, including water quality sampling results and beach advisories and closures.

The website also includes information on combined or sanitary sewer overflows, which lead to partially treated or untreated sewage being released into rivers and streams.

Why do officials check for E. coli?

Generally, coliforms are bacteria that are not harmful and are naturally present in the environment, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. They are used as an indicator that other, potentially harmful, fecal bacteria (indicated by the E. coli species) could be present.

If any routine or repeat sample is total coliform positive or present, the system (i.e., the lab) must further analyze that sample to determine whether E. coli are present. E. coli is a more specific indicator of fecal contamination and is a potentially more harmful pathogen than other bacteria typically found in the coliform group.

Consumption of or contact with water contaminated with feces of warm-blooded animals can cause a variety of illnesses, the U.S. Geological Survey said. Minor gastrointestinal discomfort is probably the most common symptom; however, pathogens that may cause only minor sickness in some people may cause serious conditions or death in others, especially in the very young, old, or those with weakened immune systems.

What is swimmer's itch? Does E. coli cause it?

Swimmer's itch is a skin rash caused by an allergic reaction to microscopic parasites that infect some birds and mammals, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Swimmer's itch is often incorrectly attributed to E. coli exposure, according to the Clean Lakes Alliance.

Symptoms can include:

  • Tingling, burning or itching of the skin
  • Small reddish pimples
  • Small blisters

What can I do about swimmer's itch?

Swimmer's itch typically clears up on its own within a week. If the itching is severe, your health care provider may recommend prescription-strength lotions or creams, the Mayo Clinic said.

Some home treatments may provide relief until it goes away:

  • Apply a corticosteroid cream or an anti-itch lotion, such as those that contain calamine.
  • Take an oral nonprescription antihistamine (Benadryl) or one with loratadine (Alavert, Claritin, others).
  • Avoid scratching the rash.
  • Cover affected areas with a clean, damp washcloth.
  • Soak in a bath sprinkled with Epsom salts, baking soda or an oatmeal-based bath product (Aveeno, others).
  • Make a paste of baking soda and water, and then apply it to the affected skin.