Officials close Rocky Point Beach because of high bacteria levels

As a result of bacteria found at levels higher than state standards, Rocky Point Beach in the Town of Brookhaven has been closed to swimming, Suffolk County health officials said Friday.

Swimming in such contaminated water "can result in gastrointestinal illness, as well as infections of the eyes, ears, nose and throat," said Dr. James Tomarken, county health commissioner.

Emma Rose Elliston Beach in North Sea in the Town of Southampton remains closed since Tuesday for the same reason, officials said.

To learn more and stay up to date on affected beaches, residents can call the county's bathing beach hotline at 631-852-5822 or check http://gis2.suffolkcountyny.gov/bathingbeaches/