Rick Patrick Riverbend News
On Wednesday, Jan. 6, the Madison County and Hamilton County offices of the Florida Department of Health (DOH) issued a health advisory for those living along and near 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,” said Lisa Hayes with the Madison County DOH. “The Florida Department of Health is conducting water sampling.”
Water that has been contaminated with elevated fecal bacteria can present several health risks to people. Microbes normally found with fecal bacteria can cause many health-related problems, including gastrointestinal issues and other conditions.
If one should come into contact with water from the river should wash thoroughly, especially before eating or drinking. Children and those with weakened immune systems can be particularly vulnerable to disease, so those people should take extra precautions near river water.
More information about the potential health effects of contaminated river water can be found by contacting the DOH, in Hamilton County at (386) 758-1059 and in Madison at (850) 973-5000.