HEALTH OFFICIALS IN HAMILTON AND MADISON COUNTIES ADVISE OF POSSIBLE WASTEWATER CONTAMINATION IN THE WITHLACOOCHEE RIVER.

Possible Impacts from Valdosta, GA Wastewater Overflow:

Contact:

COH - Hamilton

Sallie Ford

[email protected]

386-758-1058

DOH-Madison

Lisa Hayes

[email protected]

850-973-5000

Jasper, FL - The Florida Department of Heaalth in Hamilton and Madison  counties today issued a joint health advisory to residents and visitors near the Withalacoochee River in North Florida.  The City of Valdosta, Georgia has reported a large spill of untreated sewage; the spillage will impact water quality flowing from Sugar Creek into the Withlacoochee River.

Until further information is known regarding possible contamination of the river, people in the area are urged to take precautions when in contact with the Withlacoochee River.  The Florida Department of Health and the Department of Environmental Protection are conducting water sampling.

Water contaminated with wastewater overflow presents several health risks to humans.  Untreated human sewage with microbes could cause gastrointestinal issues and other conditions.

Anyone who comes into contact with the river water should wash thoroughly, especially before eating or drinking.  children and older adults, as well as people with weakened immune systems, are particularly vulnerable to disease, so every precaution should be taken if in contact with the river water.

For more information about the potential health effects of wastewater overflow, Floridians are encouraged to contact DOH-Hamilton at 386-758-1059 or hamilton.floridahealth.gov and and DOH-Madison at 850-973-5000 or visit madison.floridahealth.gov.  For information pertaining to the spill, contact the Valdosta Utilities Department Environmental Manager, Scott Fowler at 229-259-3592 or sfowler @valdostacity.com.