Panama City, Fla. –The City of Callaway is reporting a release of approximately 10,000 gallons of raw sewage. This is from a broken 8” sewer line near the South Berthe Bridge. The release entered Callaway Bayou in the 400 block of South Berthe Ave. 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 Callaway Bayou from the South Berthe Bridge to the John B. Gore Boat Ramp. The City of Callaway 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 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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