Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – In a bid to ensure the safety of both national and international tourists during the holiday season, the Federal Commission for the Protection against Health Risks (Cofepris) recently conducted extensive analyses on water quality at various beaches across Mexico. The results of their investigation have been released, revealing a generally favorable scenario for beachgoers, yet with some concerning exceptions.
Cofepris, in collaboration with the State Health Risk Protection Areas (APCRS), meticulously assessed a total of 254 beaches in Mexico. Their primary objective was to gauge the levels of Enterococcus faecalis bacteria in seawater, a key indicator of water quality and potential health risks.
A staggering 2,047 seawater samples were collected and analyzed at 69 tourist destinations spanning 16 states of the Mexican Republic. The overarching aim was to ensure the safety and well-being of both domestic and foreign tourists who flock to Mexico’s pristine beaches during the winter season.
The findings were largely reassuring, with an impressive 98% of Mexican beaches deemed suitable for recreational use, meeting the health and safety standards set by international organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO). However, there were notable exceptions that warrant attention and precaution.
Cofepris has issued a warning regarding six beaches across various states in Mexico where the levels of enterococcus bacteria have exceeded the permissible limits. These limits, as defined by the WHO, specify a maximum of 200 enterococci per 100 milliliters of water to maintain safe water quality for recreational purposes.
The six beaches that have exceeded these limits are as follows:
- Rosarito I, Baja California
- Linda, Chiapas
- Breakwaters, Chiapas
- Olas Altas, Mazatlán
- The Forest, Tabasco
- Tijuana, Tijuana
The 10 beaches monitored by health authorities in Puerto Vallarta and Cabo Corrientes are suitable for recreational use, according to the monitoring carried out before the current year-end holiday period and disseminated by the federal government through Cofepris.
Cofepris, through a statement released on Sunday, underscored the importance of heeding these alerts and taking appropriate precautions when visiting the affected beaches. The health and safety of tourists remain a top priority for the authorities, and measures will be taken to address and rectify the situation at these specific locations.
As the holiday season continues to attract visitors to Mexico’s stunning coastal destinations, vigilance and adherence to safety guidelines are essential to ensure that everyone can enjoy the beauty of these beaches without compromising their health. Authorities will closely monitor the situation, working to swiftly resolve any issues and maintain the high standards of water quality that tourists expect and deserve.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - In a bid to ensure the safety of both national and international tourists during the holiday season, the Federal Commission for . . .