SEAL ROCK – The Oregon Health Authority on Thursday lifted its health advisory for unsafe levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters at Seal Rock Beach one day after issuing it. It was the second such advisory this summer for the Seal Rock beach.
The agency said Wednesday that people should avoid direct contact with the water in the area until the advisory is lifted. Unsafe levels of fecal bacteria can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, skin rashes, upper respiratory infections, and other illnesses. Children, elderly persons and those with a compromised immune system should use extra caution as they are more vulnerable to illness from waterborne bacteria.
Unsafe levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters can come from both shore and inland sources including stormwater runoff, sewer overflows, failing septic systems, and animal waste from livestock, pets and wildlife.
Ocean waters were re-tested after Wednesday’s advisory, the agency said in a news release, and bacteria levels returned to a safe level.
