Health Alert Issued for Waterways Near Garden Road and C-17 Canal

Riviera Beach, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Palm Beach County has issued a health alert, no swim advisory, and no irrigation advisory for waterways near Garden Road connected to the C-17 Canal in Riviera Beach following a recent wastewater spill.

Drinking water is not affected.

Until further information is known regarding possible bacterial contamination, residents and visitors are urged to take precautions and avoid contact with affected waterways in the area. The City of Riviera Beach is coordinating testing and cleanup efforts with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

Water contaminated with high levels of fecal bacteria can cause illness, infections, or rashes. Anyone who comes into contact with water in the affected area should wash thoroughly, especially before eating or drinking. Children, older adults, and individuals who are immunocompromised may be at higher risk and should avoid exposure.

For more information about the potential health effects of wastewater overflow, contact the Florida Department of Health in Palm Beach County at 561-837-5900 or CHD50ContactUs@flhealth.gov.

For after-hours questions or inquiries, please call 561-881-1888.