The City has advised the public to avoid swimming in Hout Bay’s Disa River. This follows after a Cape Epidemiologist stated that the area is highly polluted, Cape {town} Etc reports.
Also read: The University of Western Cape sets gender equity standards in SA
Dr Jo Barnes, an epidemiologist and senior lecturer at Stellenbosch University, undertook an expert analysis, after which she confirmed that the volume and number of sewage intrusions into the ocean around the City, has increased largely over recent years.
She further reported that most of the rivers entering the sea are heavily polluted.
In addition, the count of E. coli was particularly high, especially in the river mouth, where it amounted to 10 000 organisms per 100ml.
The City of Cape Town is reportedly aware of the high pollution levels within the area and has such issued warnings to the public as a result of health concerns.
IOL has reported that the City will continue to monitor the situation, assess sampling results as they are gathered and alert the public to any serious concerns going forward.
Other areas also affected include Green Point and Sea Point.
Also read:
SANCCOB’s Seabird Hospital: A family-friendly learning adventure
Picture: Misha Jordaan / Gallo Images