Water advisory issued for Trestle Creek Beach

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Trestle Creek Beach users should not swim or wade in the water until further notice, Alberta Health Services says.

The health agency issued a water quality advisory on Wednesday because "elevated levels of fecal bacteria" were found by tests.

The type of bacteria found, called enterococcus, is found in human and animal feces.

"High levels in the water indicate fecal matter is likely present, along with other potentially harmful disease-causing microorganisms," AHS told CTV News Edmonton.

The elevated levels of bacteria could be the result of either human or wildlife activity in the area, as well as weather, such as rainfall, wind, stream or wetland drainage, and surface runoff.

Ingesting the water could result in gastrointestinal illness and swimming in it could cause skin, ear and eye infections.

AHS said it will be monitoring the situation near Entwistle.

On average, AHS has issued 10 water advisories because of fecal matter over the last five years.