FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Okaloosa County has issued a health advisory for Santa Rosa Sound at the marina on Okaloosa Island near Amberjack Drive following a wastewater release.
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The Florida Department of Health in Okaloosa County (DOH-Okaloosa) announced drinking water is not affected by the advisory.
According to DOH-Okaloosa, waters contaminated with wastewater present several health hazards to humans and may contain untreated human sewage with microbes that could cause gastrointestinal and other diseases.
Health officials advise anyone who comes into contact with the affected waterway to wash thoroughly, especially before eating or drinking.
Children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems are considered particularly vulnerable to disease, and DOH-Okaloosa urges residents and visitors to take every precaution when in contact with affected waters.
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Okaloosa County is performing water quality monitoring and testing. The advisory will remain in place until satisfactory test results are achieved, at which time DOH-Okaloosa said it will lift the advisory through a future press release.
Residents and visitors seeking more information about potential health effects from wastewater overflow may contact DOH-Okaloosa at 850-833-9247 or visit HealthyOkaloosa.com.
