NATION : Hugo Legacy: Swim, Shellfish Alert

CHARLESTON, S.C. —  South Carolina today banned shellfish harvesting and warned against swimming in the ocean and rivers, saying Hurricane Hugo had left waters choked with sewage.

Workers also resumed efforts today to reopen a bridge to the state’s devastated resort islands, and officials ordered construction of an eight-mile-long sand dune to protect the beach from high tides later this month.

As tons of supplies poured into the state, relief officials said they were awash in clothing and urged donors to instead send cash, food and building supplies.

The warning against swimming could last for months and possibly affect the spring tourist season, said Wayne Fanning of the Department of Health and Environmental Control.