Bacteria close Tragwein bathing lake after routine test

The Tragwein bathing lake in Freistadt district has been closed after a routine test found elevated levels of intestinal enterococci, ORF reported on Saturday.

The water appears clear and clean, according to the municipality. However, the bacteria can enter the water through sources including bird droppings.

Persistent heat and low rainfall can allow the bacteria to multiply quickly. Swimming is therefore currently prohibited to prevent health risks.

Further samples planned

Additional water samples will be taken in the coming days. The closure can be lifted only once the readings return to a safe range.

The development follows the lifting of a swimming ban at the Pramet bathing lake in Ried district. Swimming there had been prohibited because of elevated blue-green algae levels, but the ban was lifted after a few days.