The Peninsula Health District issued a swimming advisory Wednesday for Hilton Park Beach, Huntington Park Beach, King Lincoln Beach and Anderson Park Beach.
Water sampling and testing conducted Tuesday showed enterocci bacteria levels that exceeded State Water Quality Standards. Enterocci bacteria are commonly found in the feces of warm-blooded animals, including humans.
Health officials will collect additional water samples on Wednesday and results should be available on Thursday.
A sign has been posted at the beach alerting the public of the advisory. The sign reads: “Warning swimmers – bacteria levels do not meet state water quality standards, swimming not advised until further notice”.
While enterocci bacteria does not cause illness, people swimming or playing in waters with bacteria levels higher than the state standards have an increased risk of getting sick.
“We encourage the public to protect their health by complying with this advisory,” said Dr. Nzinga Teule-Hekima, Director of the Peninsula Health District. “Typically, an advisory of this nature is temporary and will be withdrawn once the bacteria levels have returned to a safe level.”
Norfolk health officials also issued a swimming advisory Wednesday for Captain’s Quarters Park on 800 Little Bay Avenue.
