The tourist season in Florianópolis and other beaches of Santa Catarina unfolds under a scenario of health risk. The latest report from the Santa Catarina Environmental Institute (IMA) revealed that more than a third of the monitored points present conditions not suitable for swimming, with the presence of the bacterium Escherichia coli in highly frequented areas.
Authorities recommend taking extra precautions and checking the updated water status before entering the sea, especially after heavy rains and near river or canal mouths, where the risk of contamination increases.
Official data and reported cases
The Ministry of Health of Brazil reported that so far this year, there have been 10,649 episodes of acute diarrheal diseases in Santa Catarina, according to the national surveillance system SIVEP-DDA/MDDA. These cases include diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, dysentery.
The Bathing Report No. 10 – Season 2025/2026 detailed that out of the 260 monitored points, 34.23% (89 sectors) were found unsuitable for swimming, with E. coli levels exceeding those permitted by CONAMA Resolution No. 274/2000.
Regulations and microbiological parameters
The regulation states that an area is suitable if in at least 80% of the samples from the last five weeks less than 800 E. coli per 100 ml are recorded. If these values are exceeded, or if an individual sample exceeds 2,000 E. coli per 100 ml, the site is classified as not suitable.
Beaches with contrasting scenarios
- Florianópolis: 29 points were classified as “unsuitable” and 59 as suitable.
- Jurerê and Praia Mole: all analyzed points were found suitable.
- Joaquina: the sector in front of the lifeguard station was declared unsuitable.
- Praia da Daniela: most stretches maintain good water quality.
- Canasvieiras: only one point was found unsuitable, the rest suitable.
- Ingleses: quality depends on proximity to the Capivari River and stormwater discharges.
- Praia Brava: most points suitable, except areas near mouths.
- Santo Antônio de Lisboa: the two analyzed points were suitable.
- Lagoinha do Norte: special attention near the lagoon outlet.
Health risk in southern Brazil
Acute diarrheal diseases are characterized by at least three episodes of diarrhea in 24 hours, accompanied by nausea, fever, and abdominal pain. Although they usually resolve in less than two weeks, there is a risk of severe dehydration, especially in children and the elderly.
Escherichia coli, a bacterium present in the human and animal intestine, can cause severe cases when certain strains contaminate water or food. Infection by E. coli O157:H7 can cause severe cramps, bloody diarrhea, and vomiting.
Prevention and recommendations
The Ministry of Health of Brazil recommends:
- Avoid contact with water classified as unsuitable.
- Take extra care after heavy rains (24–48 hours afterwards).
- Check the updated bathing map on the official IMA portal.
- Maintain personal hygiene: wash hands with soap and water.
- Treat water before consuming it (filtering, boiling, or 2.5% sodium hypochlorite).
- Avoid raw or undercooked foods, especially meats and seafood.
- Wash fruits and vegetables with safe water.
Monitoring will continue until March, when tourist traffic decreases. Environmental and health authorities emphasize the need to check the status of each beach weekly and report any health incidents to the local Health Surveillance.
Prevention and access to updated information are key to enjoying the season without health risks.
