Explanation of Beach Water
Quality System in Macau
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The most commonly used and internationally accepted indicador bacterium in water pollution monitoring is
Escherichia coli (E. coli). E. coli is present in large number inside the gastrointestinal tracts of all warm-blooded animals including humans, and in their excreta. Thus, the level of
E. coli. can reflect to what extent a body of water is polluted by faecal matter.
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| Water quality "Satisfactory" |
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the E.coli level of the beach meets the basic hygienic standard and no other bacterial pathogens are detected. The beach is suitable for swimming. In order to prevent infectious diseases, individuals should always follow the basic hygienic regulations.
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| Water quality "Not
Satisfactory" |
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the geometric mean E.coli level of the 5 most recent sampling occasions is over 610
cfu/100ml1
or the latest E.coli level of the beach is over 1600
cfu/100ml1
or other bacterial pathogens are detected in the beach
The beach is not suitable for swimming. Coming into contact with the beach water may result in skin, respiratory or gastrointestinal illnesses. Individuals should not swim in the water unitl the water quality recovers to the "Satisfactory" level.
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| After heavy rainfall or typhoon |
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According to the data previously obtained, the beach is likely to be more polluted after periods of heavy rainfall or typhoon. Individuals are suggested not to swim in the beach water within 3 days after rain stops.
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| Personal hygiene |
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Individuals should always pay attention to the following regulations regarding personal hygiene.: |
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- Do not swim if you have open wound or allergy. Individuals with infectious, skin or gastrointestinal diseases should not swim
- Do not swim on an empty stomach or immediately after a meal.
- Warm up exercises are necessary before swimming.
- Always wear swimming goggles.
- Avoid over-exposure to the sun and always use sun screen/block.
- Avoid heat exhaustion by drinking plenty of fluid.
- Avoid ingesting sea water.
- Beware of personal safety to avoid drowning or injury.
- Wash your body under tap water and flush your mouth immediately after swimming.
- Use cotton Q-tips to remove water from the ears. Use anti-bacterial eye-drops if necessary. Personal eye-drops should not be shared between different persons.
If you feel ill after swimming, seek medical consultation immediately.
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