Health Advisories for Fecal Bacteria Issued at Oregon, Los Angeles Beaches

Health officials have issued advisories warning the public against entering ocean waters at Nye Beach in Lincoln County, Oregon, and several beaches in Los Angeles County due to unsafe levels of fecal bacteria. The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) cited contamination sources including stormwater runoff, sewer overflows, failing septic systems, and animal waste, with vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals at greater risk of illnesses such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, skin rashes, and respiratory infections. OHA advises avoiding direct contact with ocean water, nearby creeks, pools, discolored water, and runoff, while encouraging other beach activities like flying kites and picnicking. Similarly, Los Angeles County Public Health officials warned against swimming near several locations, including Malibu's Leo Carrillo State Beach, Santa Monica Pier, and others, due to elevated bacterial levels, advising residents to stay out of the water within 100 yards of drainages and piers. Both regions emphasize routine testing and will lift advisories once water is deemed safe, urging the public to stay informed through official health department resources. These advisories highlight ongoing concerns about water quality and public health at popular recreational beaches on the West Coast.