Avoid Swimming at Sandy Point State Park

"The risks really are with direct water contact in terms of swimming. Basically, the risks can be infection, wounds and gastrointestinal illnesses which may lead to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea," Anne Arundel County Environmental Health Director Kerry A. Topovski tells WTOP.

Anne Arundel County health officials say both the South and East Beaches have high bacterial counts.

The park is open for picnics, boating and other activities.

Topovski says it's OK to eat crabs and fish caught near Sandy Point.

"They are safe to eat if they are cooked. There are no restrictions on crabbing or fishing in that area," she says.

People who have come in contact with water are advised to wash well with soap and water.

The warning could be lifted as early as Tuesday or Wednesday.

A similar advisory was in effect for a several days last month.

The Anne Arundel County Department of Health is working closely with Salisbury University and the Department of Natural Resources to identify why the bacteria levels are so high.

(Copyright 2006 by WTOP and The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)