Swim advisory issued for Couchiching Beach in Orillia after elevated bacteria level recorded

A swim advisory has been issued for Couchiching Beach in Orillia after a “higher than normal” bacteria count was recorded in the water.

According to a release issued Wednesday, the city of Orillia received notice from the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) that a swim advisory had been issued for the beach due to an elevated bacteria count.

A swim advisory is issued when bacteria levels exceed those considered acceptable by the SMDHU.

According to the advisory, there may be an increased risk of developing minor irritations and infections when the bacteria count is higher than normal.

An advisory is a warning to swimmers, however, it is not a beach closure. The city says during a swimming advisory, the beach is posted with warning signs indicating there may be an increased risk of developing minor irritations and infections.

The city also reminds residents that during a swim advisory, lifeguards are off-duty.

“If you choose to swim during a swimming advisory, it may be prudent to avoid ducking your head or swallowing the water,” the release reads.

According to the advisory, both Moose Bay and Portage Bay remain unaffected and are open at this time.