Beaches in four Massachusetts towns are closed on Wednesday, May 27.
Several beaches in Quincy are closed due to excessive bacteria, according to the state Department of Public Health.
Here is the full list of beach closures and reasons for closing on Wednesday:
- Ashby: Damon Pond Beach — no reason listed
- Plymouth: Fearings Pond at Beach 2 — no reason listed
- Quincy: Wollaston at Channing Street, Milton Street, Rice Road and Sachem Street — due to excess bacteria
- Shutesbury: Lake Wyola — no reason listed
What are the risks?
Swimming in beach water that has high levels of bacteria can be risky and can result in illnesses, including:
- Gastrointestinal symptoms — nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain
- Respiratory symptoms — sore throat, cough, runny nose and sneezing
- Dermatological symptoms — skin rash and itching
- Eye and ear symptoms- irritation, earache, itching
- Flu-like symptoms- fever and chills
Stay aware of any warnings or beach closures that indicate that the water is not safe. Check the weather forecast, avoid swimming after heavy rain, watch for signs of water pollution like discolored, fast-flowing and strong-smelling water, do not swim near trash or litter floating in the water, avoid swallowing the water and swim in areas designated as “swim beaches.”…