Community Corner

Beach Bacteria May Cause Flu-Like Symptoms

Beaches across the Orange County coastline are infected with bacteria, says the Orange County Health Care Agency.

Heading to the beach this weekend? Be careful: many Orange County beaches have tested for high levels of bacteria that can lead to serious illness, according to the Orange County Health Care Agency.

Poche Beach in San Clemente, the east end of Baby Beach in Dana Point harbor and several others beaches in Orange County are showing higher than normal levels of bacteria.

The bacteria can lead to fever, stomach inflamation and—rarely— septicemia, "a serious, life-threatening infection" according to the National Institute of Health. There is also the possibility of swimmer's itch.

Find out what's happening in Mission Viejowith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Levels of bacteria can rise significantly in ocean and bay waters adjacent to storm drains, creeks and rivers, says the OCHCA. Swimmers should avoid coastal waters impacted by discharging storm drains, creeks and rivers and beach users should avoid contact with any runoff on the beach during dry or wet weather conditions.

You can find a map of dangerous beaches here, or read below for more. 

Find out what's happening in Mission Viejowith free, real-time updates from Patch.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here