SOUTHERN SHORES, N.C.

An advisory against swimming was posted today at a sound-side site in Dare County because of bacteria levels, according to a news release from the state’s Division of Environmental Health.

The advisory is posted at a Southern Shores access off North Dogwood Trail, Erin Bryan-Millush said. The swimming advisory is in effect for the water within 200 feet of the posted sign.

People swimming or playing in waters with bacteria levels higher than recommended have an increased risk of developing gastrointestinal illness or skin infections, the news release said.

Bacteria levels in the water exceeded the state and Environmental Protection Agency’s recreational water quality standards in a test sample taken Monday. State officials are testing the site again today and will remove the sign and notify the public when the bacteria levels decrease to levels below the standards.

Environmental health officials sample 240 sites throughout the coastal region, most on a weekly basis, from April to October. Testing continues on a reduced schedule during the rest of the year when the waters are colder.