Bacteria Levels Drop In D.C. Water

This is a good news for Washinton D.C. resident...

Bacteria Levels Drop in D.C. Water
Updated: Friday, Nov. 12, 2004 - 2:17 PM

WASHINGTON - Tests no longer indicate high bacteria levels in D.C.'s drinking water.

In September, the D.C. Health Department urged some residents to consult with a doctor before drinking the water following routine tests indicating an increase in coliforms. The common bacteria don't usually pose a risk but can indicate the potential for other problems.

Since then, the D.C. Water and Sewer Authority says high levels of coliforms have diminished. In October, positive readings of the bacteria were found in four percent of tested water samples down from more than seven percent in September.

The Environmental Protection Agency says water could have unsafe levels of bacteria when more than five percent of tests are positive.

Public health officials believe the elevated bacteria levels occurred because of a chemical used to coat the city's lead service lines.

WTOPNEWS.com