KITSAP COUNTY, WA — The Kitsap Public Health District has issued a seven-day no-contact advisory for the Kitsap shoreline of the Hood Canal area near Naval Base Kitsap - Bangor due to sewage discharge reported today by the Navy.

According to the Naval Base Kitsap Bangor, the discharge, estimated at 5,000 gallons, began on Thursday and was corrected today at 11 a.m.

Advisory signs are being posted this evening near the community of Bangor, and along public access beaches at Kitsap Memorial State Park, Lofall, Vinland, and Edgewater Park.

During a no-contact advisory, the public is advised to avoid contact with the water in the affected area (see map).  This means that the District recommends against swimming, wading, or types of water recreation or play where water could be swallowed or get in the mouth, nose or eyes. People should also avoid direct skin contact if possible, and immediately wash with soap and water if they have exposure to the water.   A “frequently asked questions” document about no-contact advisories is available on the District’s website at www.kitsappublichealth.org/beaches.

The public is also advised to avoid collecting shellfish in the impacted areas.  Additionally, while shellfish beds remain open throughout much of the winter, The Health District recommends that people avoid harvesting shellfish anywhere in Kitsap County during and following heavy rain events, due to the increased risk of illness from water-borne pathogens and pollution.  For up-to-date information on shellfish harvesting throughout Kitsap County, visit www.kitsappublichealth.org/shellfish.

Kitsap Public Health provides information on shellfish harvesting, beach closures and other public health topics via the District’s website, Facebook page, and the Kitsap Electronic Notification System (KENS) list serve. Sign-up at www.kitsappublichealth.org/subscribe.