FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 15, 2019

COLUMBIA, S.C. - A section of beach at 15th Avenue South in Myrtle Beach is no longer under a swim advisory, the Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) reported today. Bacteria levels have returned to normal.

However, there are two new swim advisories located at Singleton Swash in Horry County and 11th Avenue North in Surfside Beach. This swimming advisory is not a beach closing, nor does this advisory affect the entire beach.

Bacteria levels that are above state and federal standards have been detected in these areas of water, and swimming is not advised until bacteria levels return to normal.

It’s safe to wade, collect shells and fish within these swimming advisory areas. However, it’s advised that people entering the water in these areas refrain from swallowing it, and that people with open wounds or compromised immune systems avoid contact with the water.

DHEC routinely collects water samples at more than 120 locations along South Carolina's beaches to monitor bacteria levels. Please visit scdhec.gov/BeachMonitoring for more information and to view recent water sampling results along the coast.

For more information, call your local DHEC office:

• Myrtle Beach 843-238-4378
• Charleston 843-953-0150
• Beaufort 843-846-1030

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