Florida
North Naples beach has high bacteria level; avoid the water
Sure its cold outside and swimming in the Gulf is unlikely but there is another reason to skip the dip.
Recent tests of Gulf waters in North Naples shows bacteria contamination and health officials advise against all water-related activity.
The state Department of Health in Collier County said testing conducted Feb. 4 indicates that the water quality at North Gulf Shore beach access at Clam Pass does not meet the recreational water quality criteria for Enterococcus bacteria recommend by the state health agency.
Enterococcus bacteria signifies fecal contamination that carries health risks.
It often originates from sewage spills, storm runoff, septic systems, and animal waste.
The health department advises against any water-related activities at this location due to increased risk of illness.
Sampling is done on a regular basis.
Swimming in infected water can cause a range of gastrointestinal illnesses such as vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps and fever.
Symptoms typically start one to 10 days after exposure. In some cases, Enterococcus can cause more severe infections like urinary tract infections or endocarditis, particularly in vulnerable individuals.
For more information, visit FloridaHealth.gov/HealthyBeaches or visit collier.floridahealth.gov.
Liz Freeman is a health care reporter. Reach her by emailing lfreeman@naplesnews.com
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FORT MYERS, Fla. – An injured manatee and her calf are recovering after authorities on a boat rescued them from the Orange River near Fort Myers on Thursday.
What we know:
The Lee County Sheriff’s Office said its Marine Unit, Advanced Technology Support Unit, drone pilots and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission helped in saving the pair after the mother was found hurt in the water and in need of medical attention.
READ: Missing Florida man found stuck in mud without food or water for days: PFD
Video shows authorities pulling the frantic manatees safely onto the boat in netting before taking them to shore.
Courtesy: Lee County Sheriff’s Office
Both animals will be taken to ZooTampa for evaluation and medical care.
What we don’t know:
LCSO did not say the extent of the mother’s injuries.
By the numbers:
As of Feb. 20, there have been 85 manatee deaths across Florida in 2026, according to the FWC. Last year reportedly saw a total of 632 manatee deaths.
Dig deeper:
Earlier this month, the FWC began investigating a spike in manatee deaths, specifically in Lee County, where officials say 25 were found dead within a week.
READ: FWC investigating spike in manatee deaths over the past week
The FWC believes these manatee deaths could be from several factors: cold stress, a lack of seagrass and polluted waterways.
The Source: Information for this story was provided by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
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