June 23, 2006

The Thunder Bay District Health Unit is announcing a Swimming Advisory for Sunnyside Beach at the north end of Boulevard Lake because tests for water quality have returned e-coli levels considered to pose a possible risk to bathers. Warning signs about the hazards of swimming are being posted by the city.

Public Health Inspectors regularly test beaches at Boulevard Lake and Chippewa Park from mid June to the end of August.  Test results from other city beaches are showing no cause for concern.

E-Coli levels are monitored. A high e-coli level in swimming water can cause problems with swimmers including a variety of skin eye, nose and throat infections, as well as stomach disorders. A high e-coli level can also be an indicator that other contaminants are in the water.

For more information about Recreational Water Illnesses, please visit the health unit website at http://www.tbdhu.com and follow the “Beach Testing” link found in Popular Health Information.

-30-