E. Coli levels at Kitsap Lake swimming beach return to safer levels
Kitsap County Washington sent this bulletin at 06/19/2019 03:49 PM PDT
06/19/2019
KITSAP COUNTY, WA
E. Coli levels at Kitsap Lake Park swimming beach return to safer levels
However, people are still advised to avoid swimming and contact with water due to ongoing cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) warning
E. coli bacteria levels at the Kitsap Lake Park swimming beach have returned to levels considered safe for human contact, however the continued presence of toxin-producing cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) still poses health risks.
While the park swimming beach is no longer closed for elevated E. coli levels, the Kitsap Public Health District advises the public to continue to avoid contact with the water at the park swimming beach and throughout Kitsap Lake due to the lake-wide cyanobacteria warning issued June 12.
Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae)
Because toxic cyanobacteria can make people sick, and can kill pets, fish, waterfowl and livestock, the public is advised to:
Avoid all contact with the lake water 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.
Avoid eating fish caught during the algae bloom.
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.
Tad Sooter | Public Information Officer Kitsap Public Health District 345 6th St., Suite 300 | Bremerton, WA 98337 (360) 728-2330 Office | (360) 908-8892 Cell pio@kitsappublichealth.org | kitsappublichealth.org
