UPDATE: Cove Road Beach reporting elevated bacteria levels

A local river beach is reportedly under a warning again, due to heightened bacteria levels.

On Wednesday afternoon, the Department of Environmental Health says because of elevated bacteria levels at Cove Road Beach in Wicomico County, they have issued an advisory. Officials say the bacteria levels typically increase after heavy rain fall. They water will reportedly be re-tested on Thursday.

Roaring Point Beach has reportedly been tested, and does not have elevated levels. Cove Road Beach is not closed to swimming, but is currently under an advisory due to the elevated levels.

Officials say those most likely to get sick from swimming with the bacteria in the water include, children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with a weakened immune system. Exposure can cause symptoms and diseases ranging from ear, nose, and eye infections to diarrhea, vomiting, hepatitis, encephalitis, skin rashes, and respiratory illnesses.

The DEH offers the following tips:
·         Pay attention to contamination and advisory warnings and stay out of polluted water.
·         Avoid swimming at beaches after heavy rainfall.
·         Stay out of murky or foul-smelling water.
·         Avoid beach water if you have an open wound or infection.
·         Swim without putting your head under water.

Cove Road Beach was closed for five days back in June, also because of high levels of bacteria in the water.

We’ll continue to bring updates as they become available. Questions should be directed to the Department of Environmental Health at 410-546-4446 or visit the Wicomico County Health Department’s website.