All Windsor-Essex beaches are open following E.coli testing results

Windsor-Essex beaches are open to the public after results from Windsor Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) E.Coli levels were approved. 

Earlier in the week, Belle River Beach, Mettawas Beach and Sandpoint Beach were reported off-limits for swimming after sampling revealed high levels of the bacteria. Water testing conducted on Monday revealed E.Coli levels of 1,000 or more.

Theresa Marentette, CEO of the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU), said that readings above 200 prompt a cautionary notice against swimming, and levels above 1,000 mean beaches must be close.

"What we're looking at is, 200 is the magic number," she said. "But anything above 200 would be posted as precautionary."

WECHU sent out an update on Twitter Friday afternoon, indicating the results from more testing came back and closing the beaches was no longer necessary. 

As part of its ongoing beach monitoring program, the health unit rechecks the water at closed beaches on Thursdays, and the outcome is generally available by the end of the day on Friday. 

According to the health unit, certain types of bacteria found in water can cause illnesses including vomiting and diarrhea, infections of the eye, ear, nose or throat, as well as skin issues.

"Swallowing contaminated water is the main way you may get sick. Bacteria can also enter the body through the ears, eyes, nose, or through broken skin," the WECHU website states.

The health unit also recommends not swimming for at least two days after a heavy rainfall. E. coli levels revealed through the health unit's program represent a snapshot of when the testing was done, not necessarily current conditions.

Cedar Beach, Cedar Island Beach, Colchester Beach, Holiday Beach, Point Pelee North West Beach and Seacliff Beach are all also open.