Tests by authorities uncovered a 'huge presence' of fecal bacteria in water parks, exposing thousands of visitors across the country to infection risks.
ADVERTISEMENTIt's the peak of summer tourist season in Italy, and at this time of year the country's water parks should be full of fun-seekers trying to keep cool in soaring temperatures.
But authorities have pulled the plug on ten popular water parks, after finding "vast quantities" of fecal bacteria in the pools.
Just when you thought it was safe to go back in the water, police carried out tests at 288 locations around the country and identified problems with almost a third of the water parks: including health, hygiene and security issues.
Ten parks were closed completely, mostly in southern and central Italy.
"Dangerous" health risks were found in waterparks in Messina, Viterbo and Latina; while parks in Naples, Bari and Reggio Calabria didn't even have the legal permits needed to operate.
Another three locations didn't meet legal and infrastructure requirements to stay open.
Police also seized more than 250kg of food that had either expired or lacked traceability. Authorities handed out 108 fines amounting to more than €40,000.