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PORTION OF WATSON BAYOU UNDER ADVISORY AFTER RAW SEWAGE RELEASE

November 18, 2019

City of Panama City reports 105-gallon raw sewage release due to equipment issue 

Panama City, Fla. –The City of Panama City is reporting a release of 105 gallons of raw sewage. This is due to a lift station malfunction at 803 E 14th Street in Panama City. The release entered Watson Bayou. Clean up actions are complete.

Sewage contamination of water can expose swimmers to intestinal viruses, bacteria, and parasites. Swimming in the water may cause symptoms like food poisoning with vomiting and diarrhea. Infection is possible in open cuts and wounds that come in contact with the water.

The Florida Department of Health in Bay County, DOH-Bay, advises against swimming in Watson Bayou from the Business 98 north to 8th Street until further notice. The City of Panama City will test the water and share results with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the Bay County Health Department. Once levels are safe, the advisory will be lifted.

For more information, contact the DOH-Bay’s Environmental Health at 850-481-4806 or visit Bay.FloridaHealth.gov.

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

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