The County of San Luis Obispo Public Health Department advises members of the community to avoid ocean water during and at least three days after Sunday's rainstorm.
Officials say rainstorm runoff can transport high levels of disease-causing organisms -- such as bacteria and viruses -- from the watershed and urban areas to the ocean. These organisms may cause skin, respiratory and intestinal problems.
Young children, older adults and those with compromised immune systems are especially vulnerable to these health hazards, officials say.
To avoid these organisms, the department recommends swimmers, surfers and others to avoid contact with the ocean water during Sunday's rainstorms and at least three days after.
