Effective immediately, in response to bacteriological sampling, the Escambia County Health Department is issuing a health advisory for the following location in Escambia County, Florida:
- Park West – Gulf side, near the Fort Pickens gate.
The bacteriological sampling occurred during water quality monitoring activities, and the level of bacteria has exceeded the level established by state guidelines. The department advises against any water-related activities at the above locations due to the potential for high bacteria levels.
“Water samples gathered at this site showed high-levels of enterococci bacteria, which is naturally present in the intestines of people and animals. Enterococci counts commonly spike after heavy rainfall washes fecal matter from wild animals into nearby water bodies,” says Escambia CHD Director Dr. John Lanza. “We advise against engaging in water-related activities at this site until further notice.”
The Escambia CHD staff will continue to monitor the water quality in the area and advise the public of results. For more information, contact the Environmental Health office at 850-595-6700 or visit the Florida Healthy Beaches Website.
