Municipal drinking water meets federal standards if less than 5 percent of the samples in a month test positive for total coliform bacteria. EPA reports that of 228 drinking water samples taken during April, only two samples 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 April 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 a health care provider 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.