Beach advisories issued for Kahaluu Beach Park, Anaehoomalu Bay

KAILUA-KONA — The Hawaii Department of Health Clean Water Branch issued water quality advisories Wednesday for Kahaluu Beach Park in Kona and Anaehoomalu Bay on the Kohala Coast.

The branch sends out advisories when water testing shows levels of enterococci exceeding 130 per 100 mL. In their most recent tests, Kahaluu registered an enterococci level of 453 per 100 mL and Anaehoomalu showed levels of 192 per 100 mL.

Enterococci is an indicator that bacteria, viruses, protozoa or parasites are potentially contaminating the water and may prove dangerous to beachgoers. The elderly, children and those with compromised immune systems are the most susceptible to illnesses caused by swimming in polluted waters.

Common afflictions from contaminated water include gastroenteritis as well as infections of the ears, eyes, nose and throat. The branch said in its alert that people may be at risk of contracting more serious diseases in heavily polluted waters.

Both beaches remain open and people are advised to proceed at their own risk. Water quality advisories will remain in effect until testing shows enterococci levels have dipped back within range of departmental standards.