Swimming banned at Lake Balaton beach due to bacterial contamination
A temporary swimming ban has been imposed at the Szépkilátó Beach in Balatongyörök due to bacterial contamination. Water samples revealed bacteria levels above the legal limit, prompting authorities to ban swimming in Lake Balaton at this location. The beach remains open for visitors. The contamination is believed to be localised and not indicative of the area’s overall water quality.
Temporary swimming ban
As reported by Index and Turizmus.com, authorities have temporarily banned swimming at Szépkilátó Beach in Balatongyörök after routine water quality tests detected Enterococcus bacteria above safety thresholds. The pollution is considered to be point-source, meaning it does not affect the entire shoreline long-term. However, as a precaution, swimming in this section of Lake Balaton is currently prohibited. Importantly, the beach remains open—visitors are still welcome to sunbathe, relax, and stroll, and all on-site services continue to operate.
Bacterial contamination
The bacterial contamination is reported to be temporary and not characteristic of the usual water quality at Szépkilátó Beach. According to the laboratory Synlab Hungary, which conducted the testing, the detected Enterococcus levels exceeded the health limit, suggesting possible faecal contamination of human or animal origin. Municipal authorities responded swiftly, initiating new water sampling procedures in line with regulations, and posted warning signs throughout the area. A detailed public notice was issued by the local government:
We have posted informational and warning signs at the beach and implemented the swimming ban in accordance with public health regulations. This section of the shoreline remains open for public access and can still be used for sunbathing and relaxation. Services remain operational, but swimming in Lake Balaton is not permitted here until further notice.
Who is at risk?
According to Index, Enterococcus bacteria occur naturally in the human body, particularly in the digestive tract. While generally harmless, large concentrations in water can pose a risk, especially to individuals with weakened immune systems. The municipality emphasised that Balatongyörök’s other beach, the Községi Strand, is not affected by the ban and continues to enjoy excellent water quality. Authorities say new updates on water test results are expected soon.
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