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Tenerife Beach Shut: Bacteria Batters Tourist Hotspot
21 May
Summary
- La Pinta beach in Costa Adeje, Tenerife, has been closed since May 14.
- Enterococci bacteria linked to stomach and skin infections detected.
- Red flags and barriers are in place, deterring holidaymakers from swimming.
La Pinta beach in Costa Adeje, Tenerife, has been closed to the public since May 14 after water samples revealed high levels of enterococci bacteria. Local authorities have fenced off the popular tourist destination and declared it a no-swim zone while further tests are conducted.
The presence of microbiological contaminants, specifically enterococci, poses health risks including gastrointestinal illnesses and infections of the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Barriers, tape, and red flags now mark the beach, preventing access and deterring swimmers from entering the water.
Tourists expressed disappointment with the repeated closures. Enterococci bacteria are naturally found in the digestive tracts of humans and animals but can cause infections if they enter other body parts, particularly in healthcare settings. Some strains are resistant to antibiotics, posing a challenge for treatment.
