The Louisiana Department of Health issues a recreational water advisory for the Bogue Chitto River in St. Tammany Parish after a levee breach at the Brookhaven, Mississippi sewage plant released six million gallons of storm water diluted sewage.
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They report that officials say a levee breach at Brookhaven’s sewage plant that caused gallons of water with sewage to flow into the east branch of the Bogue Chitto River Saturday near the Louisiana-Mississippi state line.
Health officials said there is now no timeline for how long the advisory will last, so all residents are urged to avoid the Bogue Chitto until further notice. “Although all waterways will have some level of contamination, this sewage release has the possibility of elevating the levels of bacteria”.
The contaminated water has already invaded Louisiana, according to Saint Tammany officials. “People should take precautions to lessen their chance of getting sick from exposure to the water”. Microorganisms in the water may enter the body through small cuts and wounds, the eyes, ears, nose, and mouth.
Do not swim near a drainage pipe or in a ditch, or near runoff or littered areas.
Avoid swimming after heavy rains.
Residents of Louisiana have been advised by the St. Tammany Parish government to avoid the water of the Bogue Chitto River at all costs.
Avoid swimming with an open cut or wound. Health officers advise residents to immediately shower if exposed to the water.
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Bear in mind that swallowing the water could lead to throat problems, stomach cramps, diarrhea or even worse. Children, the elderly or people with a weakened immune system are at greater risk of getting sick when swimming in waters that harbor natural and man-made contaminants.
