Several beaches in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal have been closed for clean up after several loads of medical waste washed up on shores.

According to eThekwini Municipality, uMngeni/Mangrove, Beachwood, Virginia and Glenashley beaches have been temporarily closed due to clean-up operations currently taking place at these sites. These beaches could remain closed for up to two weeks while officials ensure that all medical waste is cleared.

The eThekwini Municipality’s Health Unit is investigating the source of the medical waste which could pose a health hazard to patrons using the facilities.

“Municipal officials are working around the clock to ensure that all the waste is removed from the beach. It is estimated that the clean-up operations will take up to two weeks to complete. In the interest of safety, all residents are advised to use alternative beaches until it is safe to use the affected beaches,” the municipality said in a statement.