[White-water] Health advisory issued for water contact at Agate Beach

[Jack Doyle]

DHS news release
Oct. 11, 2007
http://www.oregon.gov/DHS/news/2007news/2007-1011.shtml

Health advisory issued for water contact at Agate Beach
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A public health advisory was issued Thursday due to higher-than-normal
levels of bacteria in ocean waters at Agate Beach in Lincoln County.

Increased pathogen and fecal bacteria levels in ocean waters can come from
both shore and inland sources such as storm water runoff, sewer overflows,
failing septic systems and even animal waste from livestock, pets and
wildlife.

Water samples indicate higher-than-normal levels of fecal bacteria, which
can result in gastroenteritis, skin rashes, upper respiratory infections and
other illnesses. Direct contact with the water should be avoided until the
advisories are lifted, especially for children and the elderly, who may be
more vulnerable to waterborne bacteria.

While these advisories are in effect at Agate Beach, visitors should avoid
wading in nearby creeks or in discolored water, and stay clear of water
runoff flowing into the ocean. Even if there is no advisory in effect,
officials recommend avoiding swimming in the ocean within 48 hours after a
rainstorm.

State officials advise that the status of water contact advisories at
beaches is subject to change. For the most recent information on advisories,
please visit the Beach Monitoring Program Web (
http://www.oregon.gov/DHS/ph/beaches/index.shtml) site or call 877-290-6767.

Although state officials discourage water contact, they continue to
encourage other recreational activities on these beaches because they pose
no health risk even during an advisory. Neighboring beaches are not affected
by this advisory.

Since 2003 state officials have used a federal Environmental Protection
Agency grant to monitor popular Oregon beaches and make timely reports to
the public about elevated levels of fecal bacteria. Oregon state agencies
participating in this program are DHS, DEQ and Oregon Parks and Recreation
Department. More detailed test results are available at the Beach Monitoring
Program Web site (http://www.oregon.gov/DHS/ph/beaches/index.shtml).


-- 
Jack Doyle
oriverat at gmail.com

Go gcoinne Dia thu
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