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Ottawa public health has issued no-swim advisories for both Petrie Island River Beaches and Mooney’s Bay on Monday.

Increased rainfall, like that seen this weekend, can cause E. coli levels to rise at the city’s beaches.

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Public health reported E. coli levels of 609 E. coli particles per 100 ml of water at Petrie Island River Beaches – three times the level needed to warrant a no-swim advisory. It’s the highest E.coli level seen at an Ottawa beach this season.

Mooney’s Bay faired a little better. E. coli levels of 244 E. coli particles per 100 ml of water were recorded – just above public health’s threshold for safe swimming.

Warnings are issued for Ottawa beaches when E. coli levels exceed 200 particles per 100 ml of water. Public health warns that if you swim during a no-swim advisory you’re at risk to develop skin, ear, throat or gastro-intestinal illness.

But don’t fret, all is not terrible. Britannia Beach, Westboro Beach and Petrie Island East Bay Beach are still open for swimming.

Public health takes water samples daily, but it can take 18-24 hours for swim advisories to be updated.

Check the city’s website for up to date information on no-swim advisories.