Water contamination by Enterococcus at the beaches of the municipality of São Luí­s, Maranhão State, northeastern Brazil - DOI: 10.4025/actascitechnol.v30i2.5492

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the hygiene and sanitary conditions of the beaches of the city of São Luí­s, using Enterococcus as the indicator. Two distinct periods were studied: the rainy and drought seasons. The samplings were performed fortnightly during the rainy season and weekly at dry season. Water pH was measured at the sampling site, and microbiological analysis was performed at the laboratory using the multiple-tube method, as recommended by the American Public Health Association - APHA (1995). The pH was found to be within normal levels, between 7 and 8, for all examined beaches. High levels of Enterococcus, between 102 and 103 MPN 100 mL^-1, were found during the drought season, reaching 105 MPN 100 mL^-1 in the rainy season. It was concluded that the beaches of Ponta da Areia and Calhau were characterized as improper for swimming at the examined periods, while the Olho d´Ígua and Araçagi beaches were suitable.