Microbial Quality Investigation of Swimming Beaches in Mahmoudabad, Iran 2019

Background and purpose: Contamination of swimming beaches in north of Iran has caused environmental problems in recent years. Mahmoudabad is exposed to these dangers due to having the longest coastline in the country.  The aim of this study was to determine microbial water quality of swimming beaches in Mahmoudabad. Materials and methods: In a descriptive-analytical study, we analyzed microbial water quality from 15 different sites in 2019 (monthly). Microbial tests were carried out according to the standard methods for Coliform group and Enterococcus faecalis. Data analysis was performed in SPSS software. Results: The average total coliforms in all sampling sites exceeded 1000 MPN/100 ml in summer, autumn and winter. In all seasons, E. faecalis were detected at highest levels in most of the swimming sites. Other sites had standard fecal coliform microbial quality for swimming beaches. Conclusion: Microbial quality of natural swimming beaches in Mahmudabad was not favorable which could pose health risks to swimmers and travelers.