HIGH bacterial levels in the water and Naegleria amoeba species are keeping Serpentine Falls closed to swimmers.
But the Department of Health today confirmed initial testing was negative for the deadly ‘brain eating bug’ Naegleria Fowleri which is the only of the Naegleria amoeba to infect humans.
The popular picnic and swimming spot was closed on January 22 due to inflows from heavy rains affecting the water quality.
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READ NOWA Department of Health spokeswoman said the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale undertook bacterial water sampling, following the recent heavy rainfall.
Results confirmed high bacterial water quality results, as well as Naegleria amoeba species.
“The original high microbiological results taken returned negative for ‘Naegleria fowleri’ speciation,” a spokeswoman said.
“Follow-up water samples were collected by the Shire of Serpentine-Jarrahdale on Thursday, January 25.
“The Shire will forward the results to the Department of Health to review once they are received.”
As the managing authority, the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions closed off the area to primary contact recreational activities and its reopening remains unknown.
Visitors to the falls area should heed the signage at the falls and avoid swimming in the water during the closure.
People can still use the picnic area and view the falls.
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