DARE COUNTY, N.C. (WITN) - Advisories against swimming were posted today at two sound-side sites in Dare County after state officials said they found excessive bacteria in the water.

The Department of Environmental Quality announced the first advisory is for the Croatan Sound at Pear Pad Road near Manteo. The second advisory is for the Roanoke Sound at Jockey’s Ridge State Park in Nags Head.

They were issued due to bacteria levels exceeding quality standards.

Elevated levels of enterococci bacteria could increase the risk of developing gastrointestinal illnesses or skin infections in people and pets, according to the news release.

The department said the entire Croatan and Roanoke Sounds will not be closed or affected, but signs will be posted within 200 feet of the advised areas.

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