The Marine and Water Bureau (DSAMA) has closed Hac Sa and Cheoc Van beaches in Coloane due to high levels of Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria.
In a statement late last week, DSAMA said recent seawater analysis has detected high concentrations of the coliform bacterium, which poses a significant public health risk.
Test results by the Municipal Affairs Bureau have shown E. coli content is present at both Hac Sa and Cheok Van beaches in a concentrations that exceed the standard.
DSAMA has hoisted red flags and posted notices at the two beaches to inform citizens and beachgoers to stay away from the sea.
The bureau said “abnormal beach water quality usually occurs after heavy rain or severe weather and may persist for some time,” adding it is closely monitoring the situation.
There have been prior reports of excessive concentrations of bacteria on Macau’s beaches. In July 2019, DSAMA issued a similar warning due to concentrations of vibrio cholerae, the bacteria responsible for cholera.
The contamination of the seawater at Macau’s beaches has prompted lawmakers to query the government, including about the increase in E. coli in coastal waters between 2015 and 2018.
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