Health Advisory : North Fork of the St Lucie River
– Florida Department of Health in St. Lucie County has issued a swimming advisory for the following river locations:
Ø River Park Marina-North Fork of the St. Lucie River
Ø Veterans Memorial Park-North Fork of the St. Lucie River
Ø Westmoreland Tract Canoe Launch-North Fork of the St. Lucie River
The sample results found higher than normal levels of enteric bacteria. Potential health risks for those who ingest or come in contact with the water include upset stomach, diarrhea, eye irritation and skin rashes.Swimming in the waters is not recommended due to an increased risk of illness at this time.
Enteric bacteria inhabit the intestinal tract of humans and animals and their presence in recreational waters is an indication of fecal pollution. The bacteria may come from storm water runoff, pets, wildlife and human sewage.
The Florida Department of Health in St. Lucie County will continue the advisory until results are satisfactory. Samples were collected Tuesday May 15, 2018 and Thursday May 17, 2018. Sampling is scheduled for Tuesday May 29, 2018 and the results will be available Thursday May 31, 2018.
For results of St. Lucie County river samples, visit the Florida Department of Health at: www.stluciecountyhealth.com click on Environmental Health, then select North Fork Bacteria Testing, then select North Fork-St. Lucie River Sample Results.
For more information, please contact St. Lucie’s Environmental Health Division at 772-873-4931.
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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