Health advisory issued August 9 for water contact at Rockaway Beach, Aug. 10

The Oregon Health Authority issued a public health advisory today for higher-than-normal levels of bacteria in ocean waters at Rockaway Beach, located in Tillamook County. Water samples indicate higher-than-normal levels of fecal bacteria, which can result in diarrhea, stomach cramps, skin rashes, upper respiratory infections and other illnesses. Direct contact with the water should be avoided in this area until the advisory is lifted, especially by children and the elderly, who may be more vulnerable to waterborne bacteria.