Oregon health officials have issued an advisory cautioning beachgoers to avoid direct contact with the water at Oceanside Beach in Tillamook County due to unsafe levels of fecal bacteria. The advisory was released on Wednesday, just ahead of the busy Labor Day weekend.
Exposure to elevated levels of fecal bacteria can lead to various illnesses, including diarrhea, stomach cramps, skin rashes, and upper respiratory infections, according to the Oregon Health Authority (OHA). The OHA recommends that children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems exercise particular caution due to their increased vulnerability.
Officials advise avoiding all nearby water sources, such as creeks, pools of water on the beach, or discolored water, as these areas can harbor even higher concentrations of bacteria. Water runoff flowing into the ocean should also be avoided.
Potential sources of fecal bacteria in water include stormwater runoff, sewer overflows, failing septic systems, and waste from livestock, pets, and wildlife. While swimming and other water activities are discouraged, state officials encourage other recreational pursuits like picnicking, kite flying, and walking on the beach, which pose no health risks during such advisories.
The OHA also reminds the public to refrain from swimming in the ocean for at least 48 hours after a rainstorm. Oceanside Beach is not the only location in Oregon currently under an advisory for elevated fecal bacteria levels. Similar warnings were issued for Siletz Bay in Lincoln County and Mill Beach in Curry County on September 3.