August 31, 2018

KITSAP COUNTY, WA

Kitsap Lake swimming beach temporarily closed due to E. coli

Existing cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) warning for the lake remains in effect

Today the Kitsap Public Health District closed the swimming beach at Kitsap Lake due to high levels of E. coli bacteria in the water. The public has been advised to avoid swimming in Kitsap Lake since July 10 when the Health District issued a cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) warning.

Elevated E. coli levels

With elevated E. coli levels there is an increased risk of getting sick so the the public is advised to continue to avoid all contact with the water at the swimming beach until further notice.  This means no swimming, wading, or types of water play where water could be swallowed or get in the mouth, nose or eyes. The risk of illness is greatest for young children, the elderly, or anyone with a compromised immune system.

The closure level for E. coli is a geometric mean value (GMV) of 126 MPN/100 mL. For samples taken on Thursday, August 30 at the Kitsap Lake Park swimming beach, the GMV was 1,304.2 MPN/100 mL.

MPN/100mL is a unit of measure and stands for the "most probable number" of bacteria colonies that grow in a 100mL sample. 

Cyanobacteria (blue green algae)

Due to the continuing cyanobacteria bloom in Kitsap Lake, the cyanobacteria warning for the lake issued July 10 is not likely to be lifted anytime soon.  Because toxic cyanobacteria can make people sick, and can kill pets, fish, waterfowl and livestock, the public is advised to:

• Avoid all contact with Kitsap Lake until further notice.  This means no swimming, wading, or types of water play where water could be swallowed or get in the mouth, nose or eyes (especially in areas where the algae are concentrated).
• Avoid ingesting lake or stream water. If a resident draws lake water for drinking purposes, they are encouraged to drink bottled water until further notice.
• Limit access of pets and livestock to the lake.
• Exercise caution when considering eating fish caught in the lake as toxins can accumulate in fish tissues, especially in the liver, kidneys and other organs. Before eating, remove internal organs, which may contain more of the toxin.
• Rinse boats and trailers thoroughly before going to another lake.

Kitsap Public Health will continue to monitor the Kitsap Lake Park swimming beach for both cyanobacteria and E.coli.  No illnesses have been reported to Kitsap Public Health at this time. 

SWIMMING BEACH MONITORING:

During the summer months, the Kitsap Public Health District monitors 34 fresh and salt water swimming areas for bacteria levels and sources, safety concerns, and toxic cyanobacteria (commonly known as toxic blue-green algae). If people or pets become sick after being in the water, or if you see an algae bloom or large numbers of dead fish, please report it online or by calling 360-728-2235 so Kitsap Public Health can investigate and take action, if necessary.

High levels of E.coli bacteria can be caused by wildlife and pets in the water, people swimming when they are sick with diarrhea, a large number of swimmers, infants swimming without swim diapers, and/or and people entering the water without showering.   

RESOURCES: 

• Kitsap Public Health District water contact advisories
• Kitsap Public Health District swimming beach monitoring information
• Washington State Department of Ecology swimming beach map
• Recreational water illnesses information
• Frequently asked questions about cyanobacteria

MEDIA CONTACT: 

Jim Zimny, RS | Assistant Environmental Health Director
Kitsap Public Health District
345 6th St., Suite 300  |  Bremerton, WA 98337
(360) 728-2300 Office | (360) 728-2235 Main
jim.zimny@kitsappublichealth.org  |  kitsappublichealth.org