RESEARCH PRODUCT

Researchers Louise Economy and Tracy Wiegner presented their research on rainfall driven shifts in the prevalence of Staphylococcus bacteria in Hilo Bay to the Hawaiʻi County Council Environmental Management committee. Staphylococcus infections in Hilo Bay seem to be on the rise, and these researchers found the presence of the bacteria in soil, sand, wastewater, and urban runoff near the Wailuku and Wailoa River mouths. Their findings show that beachgoers are four times more likely to develop Staphylococcus aureus skin infections than those who do not go to the beach. Big Island Video News recorded the presentation and subsequent discussion between MCC scientists and committee members. Watch the video below or on YouTube via the product button to the right.