Josh & Jade speak with Dr. Mike Benusic, Medical Health Officer with Island Health, about how beach water is tested, what triggers an advisory, and why beaches remain open even when bacteria levels are elevated.

They also dive into what causes those spikes and what symptoms to watch for if you are exposed, including how quickly they can appear and when to seek care.

Find current beach advisories from Island Health:
https://inspections.myhealthdepartment.com/island-health/beach-advisory

A swimmer cools off at a Greater Victoria lake. Several local beaches are currently under water quality advisories.
Image via CTV News