Don’t go in water at this Oregon beach. There’s too much fecal bacteria, officials say

An Oregon beach has more fecal bacteria in the water than usual, health officials said.

The Oregon Health Authority issued a public health advisory Tuesday regarding the ocean waters at Seaside Beach.

“People should avoid direct contact with the water in this area until the advisory is lifted,” OHA said in a news release. “Higher-than-normal levels of fecal bacteria can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, skin rashes, upper respiratory infections and other illnesses.”

An increase of fecal bacteria can come from multiple sources, including runoff, failing septic systems and animal waste, health officials said.

“While this advisory is in effect at Seaside Beach, visitors should avoid wading in nearby creeks, pools of water on the beach or discolored water, and stay clear of water runoff flowing into the ocean,” Oregon Health Authority said. “Even if there is no advisory in effect, officials recommend avoiding swimming in the ocean within 48 hours after a rainstorm.”

The beach itself does not pose any health risk during the advisory, according to Oregon Health Authority.

While beachgoers should avoid contact with the water, other activities are encouraged.