PORTLAND, Ore. — Update: Oregon Health Authority said on May 31 it lifted the public health advisory at Tolovana State Park after follow-up tests showed lower bacteria levels that no longer pose a higher-than-normal risk.
Original story:
Oregon health officials are asking people to avoid ocean waters at Tolovana State Park near Cannon Beach due to high levels bacteria.
The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) issued a health advisory on May 29 after unsafe levels of fecal bacteria were found in ocean waters at the state park in Clatsop County. People should avoid direct contact with the ocean or pools of water on the beach, wading in nearby creeks, and water runoff flowing into the ocean. The agency noted that levels of fecal bacteria are often higher in those types of water sources.
OHA said bacteria in the ocean can come from a variety of things, including:
- Stormwater runoff
- Sewer overflows
- Failing septic systems
- Animal waste from livestock, pets and wildlife
High levels of fecal bacteria have the potential to cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, skin rashes and upper respiratory infections, according to the OHA. Children and people with compromised immune systems may be more vulnerable to illness and should be extra careful, the agency added.
Ocean waters will be tested again, and once bacteria levels are at a safe level, the OHA will lift the advisory. Recreational activities, like playing on the beach and flying kites, pose no health risk during the advisory.
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