MICROBIAL CONTAMINATION OF SEAWATER FROM THREE MAJOR BEACHES IN VLORA, ALBANIA

The presence of faecal contamination in samples of seawater collected from three major beaches in Vlora: (Plazhi i Ri, Akademia e Marinës, Plazhi i Vjetër, Kabinat), was evaluated during the period of January 2014 to August 2014. Samples were evaluated for faecal coliforms (FC) and faecal streptococci (FS). Statistical analysis of the results demonstrated higher concentrations of faecal coliforms and faecal streptococci during summer. Akademia e Marinës beach had the highest incidence of faecal indicators (FC and FS), respectively 100% of samples, followed by Plazhi i Ri (27.3% and 45.5%), while Plazhi i Vjetër, Kabinat was in compliance with the Guidelines. The high concentrations of faecal indicators during summer indicate that there is a health risk to bathers, especially Akademia e Marinës beach which is highly polluted. Preventive measures such as education campaigns and some management actions, as seawater and beach quality monitoring and assessment are important precautionary measures.