Concerns for student rowers over ‘dangerous levels’ of bacteria found in York’s River Ouse

Public health concerns have been raised after flood water from York’s River Ouse was found to contain “dangerous levels” of bacteria, including E. Coli and faecal matter.

Tests taken from Cumberland Street next to the river showed high levels of E. Coli, ammonia, and bacteria including human and animal waste, according to the environmental group Round Our Way. The sample was taken outside the Streamline Taxi’s building, next to The Lowther, a popular spot for students.

The University of York’s Director of Technology, Estates, and Facilities told the BBC: “University staff and students use the Rowing Club, so we’re very concerned about the public health implications”.

York’s famous River Ouse is no stranger to flooding, and having faced two storms this January many areas close to the river were left under water.

A water contamination test carried out at the start of this year by environmental group Round Our Way found flood water to contain dangerous levels of bacteria, so if you were thinking about taking a dip any time soon you might want to rethink that.

The sample was taken from Cumberland Street in York, a built up area leading to the river bank that is home to the York Dungeons and The Lowther, a bar popular with students.

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The test revealed the quality of the sampled water to be considered “poor” according to Environment Agency standards. It also found a high concentration of E. Coli, elevated concentrations of Coliform, Ammonia, and bacteria including human and animal waste. Gross.

Theses elements are potentially harmful to human health. E. Coli, a bacteria commonly found in faeces, can cause a range of infections including urinary tract infection, cystitis (infection of the bladder), and intestinal infection.