The Onondaga County Health Department today announced that Oneida Shores Beach located in the town of Cicero, will be closed for swimming due to high levels of bacteria in the water. Swimming will not be allowed until bacteria levels return to acceptable levels. The Health Department monitors lake water routinely and closes swimming when bacteria levels exceed acceptable standards.

“Father’s Day is a busy weekend at Oneida Shores so we have made special accommodations to have the water tested over the weekend with the hope of re-opening the beach as soon as possible,” said Kevin Zimmerman, Director of Environmental Health.

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. Anyone concerned about gastrointestinal symptoms should contact their health care provider.