All Vancouver beaches reopened to swimmers

All of Vancouver's beaches have been reopened to swimmersafter testing showed improvements in water quality.

Beginning in June, some beaches were closed due toelevated levels of E. coli. These included Sunset Beach in the West End, Ambleside Beach in West Vancouver, Kitsilano Beach and Trout Lake in East Vancouver.

All of them have since reopened, the most recent being Trout Lake, which was declared safe for swimming on Wednesday, and Kitsilano Beachon Thursday, Vancouver Coastal Health confirmed.

Snug Cove Beach on Bowen Island remains closed. Water tests showed levels exceeded the acceptable 200 E. coli bacteria per 100 millilitres of water.

Vancouver Coastal Health's Tiffany Akins suggests a few precautions after a swim at the recently reopened beaches.

"Usesoap and water, pay special attention to any cuts or scrapes, dry out your ears, try not to swallow the water. Those are all good tips to keep away the digestive or intestinal problems that are associated with E. colilevels."

E. coli, or Escherichia coli bacteria, normally live in the intestines of healthy people and animals, but certain strains can cause illness in people. Its presence in water is often associated with fecal contamination, which could come from humans, animals, waste dumped from boats and leaks in the sewage system.

It can also be caused by heavy rain.

"Generally, about 48 hours after a heavy rainfall, people are advised to avoid swimming at the beaches," Akins said.

Vancouver Coastal Health's website provides the latest updates on beach closures and E. coli counts.