Bathing resorts Bathing water quality in lakes in Central Switzerland is impeccable

The cantons of Lucerne, Schwyz, Uri, Obwalden and Nidwalden have had their lakes tested for intestinal bacteria. The 65 bathing resorts tested showed good to excellent bathing water quality.

Bathing spots on Lake Lucerne, Lake Zurich, Lake Zug, Lake Sempach, Lake Baldegg, Lake Rot, Lake Lauerz, Lake Sihl, Lake Sarnen, Lake Lunger, Lake Hirschlen, Lake Seelisberg and Lake Golzern were tested, as announced by the Lake Lucerne Supervisory Commission on Thursday.

Only in streams and rivers near wastewater treatment plants or in places where waterfowl are present could slightly higher levels of contamination occur, according to the statement. As the germs in bird droppings are killed relatively quickly by sunlight, the contamination usually only occurs for a short time.

Special problems such as cercariae, also known as duck fleas, were not taken into account in the investigations. These can occur in the shore area at high water temperatures and cause localized skin itching. The operators of lidos are requested to register observations and inform bathers.