Update:
Testing by the City of Panama City shows that bacteria levels are now in a safe range following a release of 1,200 gallons of raw sewage. The advisory for St. Andrews Bay from west of the Panama City Marina to Moore Circle is lifted.
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The City of Panama City is reporting a release of 1,200 gallons of raw sewage. This is due to a discharge hose split from a force main at 4th Street and Government Street in Panama City. The release entered a storm drain that discharges into St. Andrews Bay. The release has been stopped and repairs have been made.
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 St. Andrews Bay from west of the Panama City Marina to Moore Circle 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.