DOH-Franklin Issues Water Quality Health Advisory

Franklin County, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Franklin County (DOH-Franklin) has issued a water quality advisory for the following locations:

Alligator Point Beach

Carrabelle Beach

St. George Island (Franklin Blvd./Lighthouse)

St. George Island (11^th St. East Beach Access)

St. George Island (11^th St. West Beach Access)

St. George Island State Park (Sugar Hill Access)

Tests completed on Tuesday, July 21, indicate that the water quality at Alligator Point Beach, Carrabelle Beach, and St. George Island (Franklin Blvd./Lighthouse, 11^th St. East Beach Access, and 11^th St. West Beach Access) do not meet the recreational water quality criteria for Enterococcus bacteria recommended by the Florida Department of Health. The St. George Island State Park (Sugar Hill Access) location was not sampled due to unsafe, rough wave conditions, but it is included in the advisory as a precaution.

DOH-Franklin advises against any water-related activities at these locations due to an increased risk of illness in swimmers. Sampling conducted during regular water quality monitoring showed that the level of bacteria exceeds the level established by state guidelines.

Enterococci are bacteria that live in the intestinal tracts of humans and animals. Their presence in high levels can indicate fecal contamination from sources such as stormwater runoff, pets and wildlife, or human sewage. If the bacteria are ingested or enter the body through a cut or sore, they may cause infections, rashes, or other illnesses.

All Franklin County beaches are currently under a swim advisory. The advisory will remain in effect until surf conditions allow for resampling and test results show bacteria levels have returned to acceptable health levels.

For more information, call 850-653-2111.