Imagine diving into the cool waters of the Seine on a hot summer day, with the Eiffel Toweras a backdrop. This scene, which may seem idyllic, has actually been banned for nearly a century. Yet, as the Paris 2024 Olympic Games approach, the issue of swimming in the Seine is resurfacing, raising both hope and concern.
I. Major health risks
Swimming in the Seine today is not without danger. Water pollution, mainly of microbiological origin due to viruses, bacteria and parasites, poses significant health risks. Here is an overview of the main dangers to which swimmers are exposed.
A. Gastrointestinal infections
The water of the Seine is often contaminated by bacteria such as Escherichia coli and enterococci, which are indicators of fecal pollution. These bacteria come mainly from untreated wastewater discharges and animal droppings. Accidental ingestion of this water can lead to gastrointestinal infections, manifested by symptoms such as:
- Diarrhea
- Stomach ache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
These infections can be particularly serious in vulnerable people, such as children, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems.
B. Skin and ENT infections
Skin contact with polluted water from the Seine can cause various skin and ENT (ear, nose, throat) infections. The risks are increased for people with wounds or skin lesions. Possible infections include:
- Dermatitis: inflammation of the skin that can cause redness, itching and rashes.
- Eye infections: conjunctivitis and other eye inflammations.
- Ear infections: external otitis, often painful and bothersome.
- Throat infections: pharyngitis and other inflammations of the upper respiratory tract.
These infections may require medical treatment and, in some cases, lead to more serious complications.
C. Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis, also known as “rat disease,” is a serious bacterial infection transmitted through contaminated rodent urine. This disease can be contracted through skin or mucous membrane contact with contaminated fresh water. Symptoms of leptospirosis may include:
- High fever
- Severe headaches
- Muscle pain
- Chills
- Vomiting
In the most severe cases, leptospirosis can lead to liver, kidney or meningeal complications, and can be potentially fatal if not treated promptly.
II Current status of water quality
The quality of the Seine's water is a major concern for both authorities and citizens. Despite efforts made in recent years, the current state of the river's water remains problematic, particularly with regard to swimming. Let's take a closer look at the results of recent studies and their significance.
A. Results of recent studies
The NGO Surfrider Foundation, known for its commitment to protecting oceans and waterways, has conducted a series of tests on the water quality of the Seine. The results are revealing of the current state of the river:
- Of the 14 tests carried out, only one was deemed satisfactory according to bathing standards.
- The majority of the samples taken showed levels of bacteriological pollution above the authorised thresholds.
- Concentrations of bacteria such as Escherichia coli frequently exceeded acceptable limits for bathing water.
- These results highlight the persistence of water quality problems, despite the sanitation efforts undertaken.
B. Comparison with legislative standards
European and French legislation sets strict standards for the quality of bathing water. These standards are based on the presence of certain bacteriological indicators, including E. coli and intestinal enterococci. Here is how the Seine ranks according to these standards:
| “Excellent” water quality: | “Sufficient” water quality: | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| E. COLI: | 2216 CFU/100 ML | ≤ 500 CFU/100 ML | ≤ 900 CFU/100 ML | |
| Intestinal enterococci | 563 CFU/100 ML | ≤ 200 CFU/100 ML | ≤ 330 CFU/100 ML |
Tests carried out on the Seine show that these thresholds are regularly exceeded, sometimes significantly. For example, concentrations of CFU/100 ml of E. coli were recorded at the Pont Alexandre III in June 2024, well above the thresholds recommended by the and triathlon federations.
C. Factors influencing water quality
- Wastewater discharges: Despite advances in wastewater treatment, overflows can still occur during heavy rains.
- Urban runoff: Rainwater running off impermeable surfaces in the city carries various pollutants into the river.
- Industrial activity: Although regulated, industry continues to contribute to the pollution of the river.
- River traffic: Boats traveling on the Seine can be a source of pollution, particularly through their discharges.
Conclusion
Swimming in the Seine carries significant health risks due to microbiological and chemical pollution of the water. Gastrointestinal, skin, ENT infections and leptospirosis are the main dangers to which swimmers are exposed. Despite considerable efforts to improve water quality, particularly in view of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, swimming in the Seine remains prohibited and strongly discouraged without specific authorization.
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