Panama City, Fla. –The City of Panama City is reporting a release of approximately 195,000 gallons of raw sewage. This is due to a lift station failure in the 4200 block of West 20^th Street. The release entered a storm drain feeds into Poston Bayou. Cleanup actions have been completed. 

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 Poston Bayou. The City of Panama City will test the water and share results with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and DOH-Bay. 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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