Byron Bay's Belongil Beach area in Australia has been badly affected by floodwaters and storms that have allowed the polluted water to make its way from the drains into the river. It is reported that one woman who went into the sea for a swim is now suffering from genital and ear infections and is sharing a warning for other people to avoid her mistake.
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A woman has contracted a genital infection while swimming in the sea and is warning others to be careful.
Reportedly, a woman named Jade was enjoying her swimming at Byron Bay's Belongil Beach, Australia, earlier this year when she felt something wasn't quite right.
It is believed that the area had been affected by a series of heavy floods and the polluted water has ran off into the sea.
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Jade told ABC: "The water looked OK, and other people convinced me it was fine, I but I felt a burning sensation so got out quickly."
Knowing something was wrong, Jade visited a doctor who confirmed the infection in her ear and vagina.
It is believed that the water was polluted due to the storms that hit the region in the days before.
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The storm left huge amount of water rushing into the drains and cause polluted water to find its way into the rivers.
Paul Douglas, the director of the North Coast Public Health Unit in NSW, said: "Floodwater can contain hazardous substances, including raw sewage, chemicals and other contaminants."
Tom McAully Rix, an environmental officer with Ballina Shire Council, added: "Pollution is affected by tide, swell, wind and onshore drifts and how these factors interact can be highly variable, even within the day."
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Ballina Shire Council is now warning people to stay away from the sea over Easter weekend.
A notice issued reads: "It could take several weeks before harmful bacteria and debris is flushed and will depend on further rainfall in the region."
Accidentally swallowing contaminated water can lead to serious viral or bacterial infections.
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The NSW Environment Protection Agency (EPA) says that while it can be useful to seek out test results with your local council, it's also important that people simply use their common sense when deciding whether or not to go for a swim.
The body said: "If you can see signs of pollution in the water, like discoloured water or debris floating on the surface, don't jump in.
"Never swim in floodwater and avoid swimming near stormwater drains."
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Grainne O'Malley lives close to Manly beach near Sydney and has been cautious about going in the water of late.
She told the Daily Mail: "I normally swim in Manly at least twice a week, but the storms and flooding have made me very cautious.
"Who knows what all that rain washes into the sea."
Jade is now following the precautions too.
She said: "I went in against my better judgement because I'd had cabin fever for weeks stuck inside.
"I won't be swayed by others again. As a long-time local, I should have known better."
