SARASOTA – The Florida Department of Health in Sarasota County (DOH-Sarasota) today issued a health advisory to residents and visitors near Sarasota Bay. The City of Sarasota utility department has reported a spill of untreated sewage that has entered the water.

Until further information is known regarding possible contamination of the water, people in the area are urged to take precautions when in contact with Sarasota Bay in the area of Centennial Park. The City of Sarasota, and DOH – Sarasota is 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 Sarasota Bay 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 Sarasota Bay.

For more information about the potential health effects of wastewater overflow, Floridians are encouraged to contact DOH-Sarasota at (941) 861-6133.

About the Florida Department of Health

The department works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.