🚨 Norovirus Alert: Cardiff Bay Swimming Hazard! 🚨
Recent reports confirm that norovirus cases in Cardiff last year were linked to swimming in Cardiff Bay. Concerns over water quality have caused popular attractions, like a beloved inflatable obstacle course, to move to safer waters. 🌊🏃♂️
The Bay’s water is fed by the River Ely and River Taff, both of which have seen sewage discharge issues recently. This has sparked a serious debate among city council members who stress the importance of improving water quality for the community and local businesses. 🏛️
Councillor John Lancaster vocalised the collective frustration, urging authorities to collaborate with Natural Resources Wales and Welsh Water to tackle these pressing problems. Meanwhile, the Cardiff Harbour Authority continues to monitor water quality daily, but recent readings have shown disappointing results, with many testing stations marking ‘fail.’ 📉
Last summer, an investigation led by Public Health Wales pinned norovirus as the culprit behind a spate of illnesses, presumed to stem from sewage-related contamination. As a precaution, an ongoing research programme with Bangor University aims to test for norovirus specifically in Cardiff Bay’s waters. 🧪
Councillor Jennifer Burke reassures us that steps are being taken. The council is actively working with partners like Welsh Water and the Welsh Government to push for better regulations and solutions for upstream pollution. Nevertheless, there’s only so much local efforts can change when major issues stem from further up the watercourse. 🤝
Due to these concerns, Aqua Park relocated to Cosmeston Lakes as a trial this year, highlighting the broader issue of water quality challenges in UK rivers and lakes. ☔
Stay safe and stay informed! Let’s hope for cleaner waters and carefree summer fun soon. 🌞💦