Microbiological contamination has led to the recommendation that swimming be avoided at several beaches in northern Portugal. The situation affects coastal and river beaches, warning swimmers of health risks.
In Espinho, four beaches have swimming inadvisable due to the contamination problem. This is a coastal area in the Aveiro district known for its urban beaches.
In the Braga district, five river locations present elevated levels of microbiological contamination, also leading to the recommendation to avoid contact with the water in these areas.
In Matosinhos, in the Porto district, three out of six monitored beaches present contamination, which represents half of the beaches in the region with identified problems.
