Orihuela City Council has approved a new programme of health and safety checks on the eleven beaches of Orihuela Costa, including legionella testing at foot showers and public water points. The four-year contract, with a budget of 144,940 euros, aims to reduce the risk of outbreaks and protect vulnerable groups such as older people, children and those with weakened immune systems.

The authority says that public foot showers and washroom facilities, although connected to the mains supply, can create conditions favourable to the growth of Legionella pneumophila. Factors such as aerosol generation, seasonal use, water stagnation and high temperatures increase the risk, particularly during periods of high tourist demand.

The contract covers 46 double-tap foot showers with concrete bases, nine accessible units under pergolas, and 13 drinking water points located in lifeguard huts and beach toilets. Legionella sampling will take place quarterly between March and October, while annual microbiological checks for mould and yeast will be carried out on the concrete bases.

In addition, sand on all eleven beaches will be tested every fortnight from 15 June to 15 September for Escherichia coli and Enterococcus as indicators of faecal contamination. Most beaches are currently flying Blue Flags, and five have also received the regional Qualitur award for excellence, safety and sustainability.