Health Officials in Walton County Advise of Possible Bacterial Contamination in Hogtown Bayou

Contact:
Patti Roberts
Patricia.roberts@flhealth.gov
850-892-8015

Walton County, Fla. — Due to a recent wastewater spill into Hogtown Bayou located near West Wilson Street, Santa Rosa Beach, the Florida Department of Health in Walton County (DOH-Walton) is issuing a health alert and no swim advisory to residents and visitors near the areas. Drinking water is not affected.

Until further information is known regarding possible bacterial contamination, residents and visitors in the area are urged to take precautions when in contact with the impacted area in Walton County. Regional Utilities is coordinating testing and cleanup actions with DOH-Walton and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

Water contaminated with high levels of fecal bacteria can cause disease, infections, or rashes. Anyone who comes into contact with the water in this area should wash thoroughly, especially before eating or drinking. Sensitive individuals (e.g., children, the elderly, and those who are immunocompromised) may still be at risk even at low concentrations and should avoid any exposure.

For more information about the potential health effects of wastewater overflow, please contact DOH-Walton at 850-892-8021.

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