Brewerton, N.Y. - Onondaga County Health Department has closed Oneida Shores Beach in Brewerton. No swimming is allowed due to high levels of E.coli bacteria in the water. This comes after Jamesville Beach swimming was closed last week due to the visual presence of an algal bloom.
Most varieties of E. coli are harmless or cause brief diarrhea. While only some types of bacteria will cause gastrointestinal illness, the presence of E. coli bacteria is an indicator of increased general bacterial action in the water.
Algal blooms can turn the water green and can form thick surface scums on the water. Certain types of algae can release toxins that may cause skin or eye irritation, or diarrhea and vomiting if ingested
Neither Beach will reopen until water testing shows the water is acceptable and safe for swimming.
The public should refer to www.OnondagaCountyParks.com for reopening information.