DOH-MADISON ISSUES HEALTH ADVISORY NEAR WITHLACOOCHEE RIVER 

Madison, Fla.— The Florida Department of Health in Madison County (DOH-Madison) has
issued a health advisory to residents and visitors near the Withlacoochee River in North Florida
due to a wastewater overflow in the City of Valdosta, Georgia, from a recent weather event with
excessive rain amounts. Drinking water is not affected by this advisory.

DOH-Madison, Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), and Suwannee River Water Management District are working together to assess and closely monitor the situation. As these assessments continue, we will provide updates to the public.

DEP plans to conduct sampling and testing this week along the Withlacoochee River. Until further information is known regarding possible bacterial contamination of the river, residents and visitors in the area are urged to take precautions when in contact with the Withlacoochee River.

Water contaminated with elevated fecal bacteria presents several health risks to humans. Microbes normally found with fecal bacteria could cause gastrointestinal issues and other
conditions.

Anyone who comes in 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, contact DOH-Madison at 850-973-5000 or visit Madison.FloridaHealth.gov.

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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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Department of Health, visit FloridaHealth.gov