water quality

NYC Legionnaires’ Disease Outbreak: One Dead, Over 22 Sick

One dead and at least 22 sick from Legionnaires’ disease cluster in New York City, that’s a really concerning situation, and it’s understandable that people are taking notice. It’s definitely not something you want to hear about, especially when you consider the potential severity of the illness. It makes you wonder what the source might be, and how it spread so rapidly. This is a reminder that our environment, even seemingly benign aspects of it, can pose health risks.

This whole situation underscores that Legionnaires’ disease isn’t necessarily isolated to a single building or specific AC unit. We’re talking about a cluster, meaning multiple cases are linked and happening in a localized area.… Continue reading

Paris Seine Swim Spots Close After Reopening Due to Rain, Sewage

On July 5, 2025, the Seine River in Paris opened its three swimming pools for the ‘Paris Plages’ event. This marked the beginning of the Pont Marie safe bathing site, welcoming swimmers to enjoy the water. People were observed swimming and diving, taking advantage of the recreational opportunity. This event offered a public space for Parisians and visitors alike to cool off and enjoy the river.

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Seine Reopens for Swimming: Paris River Welcomes Swimmers After a Century

After a 1.4 billion euro cleanup, the River Seine in Paris is opening for public swimming for the first time in over a century, with three designated swimming areas set to open. The Seine, once heavily polluted and illegal for swimming, was a key venue for the 2024 Paris Olympics, motivating extensive water quality improvements. Although authorities report water quality meeting European standards, some experts express skepticism about the water’s true safety and the current assessment methodology. Despite this, swimming sites will be open for free during specific times, offering a new recreational experience to Parisians and tourists.

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Belgium withdraws from mixed relay triathlon at Olympics after athlete who swam in Seine River falls ill

I am absolutely appalled by the recent news of Belgium withdrawing from the mixed relay triathlon at the Olympics after an athlete who swam in the Seine River fell ill. The fact that the Seine River was tested at 985 CFU/100 mL just days before the event is outrageous. The water guidelines are in place for a reason, and it is unfathomable that officials would allow athletes to swim in water that clearly does not meet the safety standards. It is incredibly irresponsible and negligent on the part of the organizers.

The health and safety of the athletes should always be the utmost priority, and in this case, it was blatantly disregarded.… Continue reading