SEAL ROCK – The Oregon Health Authority on Friday canceled its public health advisory for unsafe levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters at Seal Rock, one day after urging people to avoid direct contact with water in the area.
The agency said results from follow-up tests taken by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality showed lower bacteria levels and that contact with the ocean water no longer poses a higher-than-normal risk. Officials did recommend staying out of large pools on the beach that are frequented by birds, and runoff from those pools, because the water may contain increased bacteria from fecal matter.
On Thursday the OHA said unsafe levels of fecal bacteria could cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, skin rashes, upper respiratory infections, and other illnesses.
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, the OHA said.
Health officials said the beach was safe for other recreational activities because they pose no health risk even during an advisory.