WAYNESVILLE — Before heading out for summer waterway recreation, an I-Team investigation is revealing how saltwater and freshwater bacteria can make you sick, and even lead to life-threatening infections.
“I would have died if I hadn’t gone to the hospital”, said Barry Briggs a Waynesville man who nearly lost his left foot to the saltwater bacterial infection vibrio. The 57-year old developed the bacteria while vacationing in Tampa, Florida.
Vibrio thrives in warm, saltwater. It is often found in raw or undercooked seafood. The bacteria can cause food poisoning but it also targets open wounds. Doctor’s think the bacteria targeted Brigg’s foot through a cut or bug bite. Briggs had to have two surgeries and has permanent scarring on his left foot and leg.
"It could have been a matter of 24-hours total. Between losing the foot, losing the lower leg or if it had gotten systemic, potentially losing my life", said Briggs.
However, because freshwater supplies all Ohio waterways, the state’s primary bacteria threats are e-coli and algae. The Ohio Division of Natural Resources tests its’ 74 state park beaches for those dangerous bacteria levels.
"If we see a problem and if the results come back high from that sample we will test more often. Visual scan of the beaches are taken every day", said Natalie Pirvu, the ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft Environmental Resource Program Administrator.
Pirvu said if high bacteria levels are detected, an advisory or warning will be issued. The information and test results are posted online and signage is placed at affected beaches.
Water with high e-coli and blue-green algae levels can cause stomach and ear aches, headaches, rashes and dizziness. Pet owners also need to be aware of the warnings, because they can become ill if they ingest blue-green algae when licking fur or paws.
ODNR does not test all bodies of water. Before wading, swimming or fishing in private lakes, ponds, creeks and streams department leaders say look for these waring signs: scum, odd colors or the appearance of something looking like paint on the water.
Despite his near-death experience, Barry Briggs still enjoys the water. But before he gets in the water, Briggs checks online water testing information. He is urging others to do the same.
"I definitely wouldn't go in there if I didn't know," Briggs said. "You've got the option of doing something. Taking the best precautions you can or avoid the water. I choose not to avoid the water."
Click here to link to ODNR’s BeachGuard: http://www.https://odh.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/odh/know-our-programs/bathing-beach-monitoring/BeachGuard/
© 2020 Cox Media Group
