Panama City, Fla. – The City of Panama City is reporting a release of approximately 13,500 gallons of raw sewage. This is due to a manhole overflowing at 818 E 7^th Court. The release entered Watson Bayou. 

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 againstswimming in Watson Bayou from E. 7^th Court to E 5^th Street until furthernotice. The City of Panama City will test the water and share results with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the Florida Department of Health in Bay County. Once levels are safe, the advisory will be lifted.

For more information, contact the DOH-Bay’s Environmental Health office 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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