An advisory against swimming has been issued for a sound-side site in Carteret County due to elevated bacteria levels. State recreational water quality officials have found that the water at the public access to Bogue Sound at 16th Street in Morehead City contains a running monthly average of 38 enterococci per 100 milliliters, surpassing both state and Environmental Protection Agency standards of 35 enterococci per 100 milliliters.
Enterococci, used as an indicator in testing, is typically found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals. While not directly causing illness, its presence can signal other harmful organisms. Exposure to waters with high bacteria levels increases the risk of gastrointestinal issues or skin infections.
The advisory does not equate to a beach closure and is limited to waters within 200 feet of the posted sign. The notice reads: “ATTENTION SWIMMING IN THIS AREA IS NOT RECOMMENDED. BACTERIA TESTING INDICATES LEVELS OF CONTAMINATION THAT MAY BE HAZARDOUS TO YOUR HEALTH. THIS ADVISORY AFFECTS WATERS WITHIN 200’ OF THIS SIGN.”
State officials will continue monitoring the site and will remove the advisory once bacteria levels fall below established standards.
Recreational water quality officials conduct sampling at 222 sites along the coast, mostly on a weekly basis from April through October, with reduced frequency during other months when fewer people are swimming.
For further details about the N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program or to view testing site maps, visit their website or follow their social media updates.
