Anglers in England are urged to adopt new health guidelines by the Angling Trust to prevent illnesses stemming from sewage contamination in waterways. These recommendations include wearing protective clothing, avoiding drinking contaminated water, and observing proper hygiene practices to safeguard against harmful bacteria.
Anglers in England have been advised to adhere to new health guidelines to prevent illnesses from sewage contamination in waterways. The Angling Trust issued six recommendations, including wearing protective clothing, avoiding drinking the water if they fall in, and not putting wet lines or tackle in their mouths. It is also advised to shower promptly after potential exposure, cover cuts with waterproof plasters, and wash hands before eating.
The guidelines were released amidst concerns over the high levels of harmful bacteria, such as E. coli, detected in rivers. An analysis by Friends of the Earth revealed that more than 440,000 hours of sewage discharge occurred along the coastline in 2023. The Angling Trust’s Kris Kent, who runs the Water Quality Monitoring Network, highlighted the risks to anglers’ health, including gastrointestinal illnesses like hepatitis A, salmonella, and giardiasis.
The Trust’s recommendations also include general safety tips such as taking care on steep banks and avoiding fishing near power lines. The Water Quality Monitoring Network tests over 200 rivers and is a part of the Anglers Against Pollution campaign, aiming to improve water safety for anglers.
