NORFOLK, Va. — The Norfolk Department of Health lifted swimming advisories on Thursday for five beaches in Ocean View.
The advisories were put in place earlier in the week for 5th Bay, North Community Beach, Ocean View Park, 10th View and 13th View, according to health officials.
According to the VDH website, a water quality test conducted Tuesday morning revealed bacteria levels at those beaches exceeded state standards for acceptable bacteria levels. Specifically, 5th Bay reported a bacteria indicator value of 201, North Community Beach reported 299, Ocean View Park reported 457, 10th View reported 408 and 13th View reported 226.
According to a press release from the City of Norfolk, the Environmental Health Division of the Norfolk Department of Public Health samples Ocean View beach water on a weekly basis, during the swimming season – which runs from late May through mid-September.
Re-sampling of the water at those locations showed that water quality at those beaches again meets state standards, and all advisory signs were being removed.
The water sample test conducted at most beaches tests for bacteria known as enterococci, found in feces. Officials said anyone who came into contact with the water could face an elevated risk of illness, especially children who are more likely to swallow the water or individuals who have open wounds or weakened immune systems.
