WHATCOM COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Bacterial pollution has forced the temporary shutdown of a Whatcom County beach.

Health and Community Services says that swimmers should avoid Wildcat Cove in Larrabee State Park until bacteria levels subside.

The advisory was issued after high levels of enterococcus bacteria were reported in the waters.

Enterococcus bacteria are caused by fecal material and could contribute to spreads of norovirus or strains of E. coli.

KGMI previously reported that beaches at Bay View State Park in Skagit County were issued similar advisories after high levels of fecal bacteria were reported.

Swimming in bacteria-ridden waters can be especially dangerous for children and people with chronic illnesses.

Health officials will be posting warning signs at the beach until further notice.