It’s in the news: the Great Lakes Water Authority has issued a Boil Water Advisory for almost 1 Million people living in Metro Detroit.
Watch The Video: Doctor explains why you need to boil your water.
We spoke with our Medical Expert, Dr. Puja, to ask about the boil water advisory. We wanted to know more about the harmful bacterial contamination that can occur in the water system in these types of situations.
The Expert Opinion: Look here’s the thing these types of water main breaks are generally safe in America. We have a system to keep us protected. You’re going to boil your water.
Bring your water to a rolling boil. You’re going to let that water boil for a full minute. And, none of this “oh it’s kind of bubbling boil.”
The water has to Roar. This will generally kill most of the common bacteria that can harm you.
Now what I want you to know: if your water isn’t boiled properly, generally, there are three types of bacteria that can cause, harm to you and your body.
The three most common types of bacteria and parasites that come from this type of situation are:
- Giardia
- E. Coli
- Legionella
Giardia, is a parasite. Giardia can cause profuse diarrhea. This can be harmful, especially to senior citizens and young children.
E. Coli, is a bacteria. E. Coli can cause bloody diarrhea–again nobody wants that.
And the other type of common bacteria is something called Legionella. Legionella can cause pneumonia.
So, I’m going to repeat it again nobody wants this.
You can prevent all this by bringing your water to a roaring boil for 1 minute.
We’re going to have to hear back from Detroit Great Lakes Authority to know when everything is resolved.
The common treatment for these infections is, generally, antibiotics. If you’re suddenly ill, and you think it could be because of the water, please go and talk to your doctor.
What are the different types of Boil Water Advisories?
- Boil Water Advisory.
- Do Not Drink Advisory.
- Do Not Use Advisory.
