The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced today that drinking water for the District of Columbia met federal standards during March 1997. EPA reports that of 260 drinking water samples taken during March, only one sample tested positive for coliform bacteria. Coliform bacteria can be found in soil, on plants and in animal and human waste. They are not harmful by themselves, but their presence can indicate the possibility of other harmful organisms. No harmful bacteria were found during the March testing cycle.
Officials say that the drinking water remains safe for the general population to drink.
Anyone with a severely suppressed immune system should consult with their health care providers regarding any safety measures that may be needed. This guideline from EPA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention applies to all municipal water systems. EPA continues to update its D.C. drinking water hotline on a weekly basis.