Shirley / Copiague, NY - July 11, 2016 - Shirley Beach in Shirley, and Copiague Harbor Property Owners Association Beach in Copiague, are closed to bathing due to the finding of bacterial levels in excess of acceptable criteria.

According to Suffolk County Commissioner of Health Dr. James Tomarken, bathing in bacteria-contaminated water can result in gastrointestinal illness, as well as infections of the eyes, ears, nose, and throat.

For the latest information on affected beaches, call the Bathing Beach HOTLINE at 852-5822, contact the Department's Office of Ecology at 852-5760 during normal business hours, or visit the Beach Monitoring page on the Suffolk County website.