As Durban gears up to welcome 1.3 million visitors for the festive season, the eThekwini Municipality has reopened 19 beaches while keeping four others - Anstey’s, Reunion, Battery Beach, and Bay of Plenty - temporarily closed due to E.coli contamination.

Despite efforts to monitor water quality weekly, the risks posed by the bacteria remain a concern for residents and holidaymakers.

E.coli, a bacterium commonly found in contaminated water, can cause severe gastrointestinal illnesses, including abdominal cramps, diarrhoea, and vomiting. According to the Mayo Clinic,severe infections may lead to kidney failure, especially in children, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems.

E.coli bacteria are naturally present in the intestines of humans and animals. Symptoms typically appear three to four days after exposure, with young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems at greater risk of life-threatening complications like kidney failure.

Common sources of infection include contaminated food (undercooked ground beef,unpasteurised milk, and fresh produce), untreated water, and poor hygiene practices.

To prevent infection, cook meat thoroughly, wash hands frequently, avoid unpasteurised products, and separate raw meats from other foods. Seek medical attention for severe or bloody diarrhoea.

The bacteria can easily travel from person to person, more so when infected adults and children don't wash their hands properly. Family members of young children with E.coli infection are especially likely to get it themselves.

The municipality stated that some beaches, such as uShaka, Point, and Bronze Beach, recorded the lowest E.coli levels last week, making them safer options for swimming. In the southern parts of KwaZulu-Natal, Toti Main, Brighton, and Winklespruit beaches are also within acceptable water quality standards.

Authorities have urged beach-goers to avoid swimming at closed beaches and to stay informed about water quality updates.

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Durban beaches open, but E. coli concerns remain: What you need to know