The Kitsap County Health District has issued a closure advisory for the swimming area at Long Lake County Park near Port Orchard.

Water samples collected on July 14 and 15 exceeded the state swimming beach closure guideline for E. Coli bacteria.

The Health District has posted warning signs at the swimming area. Since there is an increased risk of getting sick, the public is advised to avoid all contact with the water in this area 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 Health District will collect additional samples on July 19.

The beach will be reopened when samples show the concentration of E. Coli bacteria has dropped to safe levels.

The Health District collects bacteria samples from lake swimming areas throughout Kitsap County every week between May and September.

These monitoring efforts are funded through the Kitsap County Surface and Stormwater Management Program.

To report a waterborne illness other than swimmer’s itch, call the Health District clinic at (360) 337-5235.

Information about current swimming beach closures is also available on the Health District’s telephone hotline at (800) 2BE-WELL or online at www.kitsapcountyhealth.com under Health Alerts.