Panama City, Fla. – The City of Panama City is reporting two separate releases totaling approximately 12,750 gallons of raw sewage. This is due to two lift stations overflowing, one at 1710 Business Highway 98 and one at 818 East 7^th Court. The releases 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 East 8^th Street south to East 3rd 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. 

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