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Germs in Greifswald’s drinking water: Boiling is strongly recommended!
In Greifswald, citizens have to boil water due to bacteria in their drinking water. The city provides information about measures and risks.
Germs in Greifswald’s drinking water: Boiling is strongly recommended!
There is currently reason for caution in Greifswald: the city administration has issued an order stating that tap water should definitely be boiled before drinking. This measure became necessary after more bacteria were found in the water samples than permitted. Enterococci in particular have emerged, which occur naturally in the intestines of humans and animals, but can become unpleasant in higher concentrations. The contamination can lead to gastrointestinal irritation, but so far no serious health risks are expected, reports MOPO.
The regulation affects the entire city of Greifswald, with the exception of the island of Riems. Boiled water should be used for all eating and preparation purposes, including, of course, washing fruit and vegetables and brushing teeth. Lucky for all water mermaids: showering and bathing are still possible without any problems as long as the water is not swallowed. However, dishwashers require the 70 degree program to ensure the bacteria are killed.
Unknown cause
What is the cause of this unpleasant contamination remains unclear. A connection to the recent EHEC outbreak in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania can currently be ruled out. According to that Mirror the exact background is still being clarified.
Safe drinking water quality through strict controls
The importance of safe drinking water cannot be overstated. According to that Federal Environment Agency Strict regulations for monitoring drinking water quality have been established in Germany in accordance with the Infection Protection Act and the Drinking Water Ordinance. Drinking water must not contain concentrations of pathogens that pose a health risk. The frequently cited pathogens include salmonella and norovirus, all of which enter the aquatic environment primarily from feces.
Monitoring covers various stages: from raw water and treatment processes to drinking water delivery and distribution systems. In the event of incidents or unusual illnesses, additional tests are used. The Federal Environment Agency plays a central role in the safe handling of the microbiology of drinking water and sets criteria for the testing procedures.
Given the current situation in Greifswald, citizens should stay well informed and take the recommendation to boil drinking water seriously. It remains to be hoped that all uncertainties will soon be clarified and the city's waters will soon be in perfect condition again.