The Kitsap Public Health District closed the swimming beach at Kitsap Lake due to high levels of E. coli bacteria in the water today. The closure comes after the public had been advised to avoid swimming in Kitsap Lake since July 10 due to a cyanobacteria warning.

An increased risk to the public of getting sick accompanies elevated E. coli levels. The public is advised to avoid all contact with the water, meaning no swimming, wading or types of water play where water could be swallowed or get in the mouth, nose or eyes. E. coli poses the greatest risk to young children, the elderly and anyone with a compromised immune system.

Samples collected at the lake found a geometric mean value of E. coli that was more than 10 times the amount necessary to prompt a beach closure.