Oregon Health Authority issued a public health advisory for Siletz Bay in Lincoln County after detecting unsafe levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters there.
The agency advised people to avoid direct contact with water in the area until the advisory is lifted. Unsafe bacteria levels can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, skin rashes and upper respiratory infections, with children, the elderly and those with compromised immune systems at higher risk.
Visitors are advised to avoid wading in nearby creeks, pools of water on beaches and discolored water, and to stay clear of water runoff flowing into the ocean, where bacteria levels tend to be higher. The health authority recommends avoiding swimming in ocean waters within 48 hours after rainstorms even when no advisory is in effect.
Fecal bacteria in ocean waters can originate from stormwater runoff, sewer overflows, failing septic systems and animal waste from livestock, pets and wildlife, according to the advisory. Ocean waters will be retested after the advisory is issued, and the public will be notified once bacteria levels reach safe levels.
Recreational activities that pose no health risk—such as flying kites, picnicking, playing on the beach and walking—can continue during the advisory.