Health Ministry Warns Against Swimming in Northern Streams Due to Pollution

Israel's Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Environmental Protection have issued a warning to the public against entering several streams in northern Israel due to significantly elevated levels of fecal coliform bacteria, indicating pollution. The advisory will remain in effect until test results show stable and safe levels.

The warning comes after water samples taken on Wednesday revealed bacterial counts far exceeding the Health Ministry's recommended limit of 400 fecal coliform per 100 ml. The highest readings were recorded at the Jilbon stream with 3,700 bacteria per 100 ml, followed by the Meshushim pool with 3,100.

Other affected locations include the Banias, Hasbani, and Jordan rivers, as well as additional sites like the Yehudiya waterfall, Tzalmon stream, and various bridges along the Jordan River. Specific readings ranged from 600 to 1,200 bacteria per 100 ml at these locations.

The ministries are specifically cautioning against entering the Banias near Kfar Sold bridge, the Hasbani at the confluence promenade, the Jordan River from Joseph bridge to Arik bridge, the Meshushim pool, Jilbon, Zaki, Yehudiya, and the Haruv pool in Tzalmon stream.

The Ministry of Environmental Protection stated that the source of the pollution has not yet been identified. Routine water sampling is conducted bi-weekly by the Israel Nature and Parks Authority, with the Health and Environmental ministries continuing their monitoring efforts.