JBSA-FORT SAM HOUSTON –
Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston officials confirmed yesterday that the JBSA-Fort Sam Houston public water system had a raw ground water source sample(s) test positive for E. coli Tuesday, May 27, 2014.
"Water consumers at JBSA-Fort Sam Houston do not need to take any actions at this time," said Tech. Sgt. Akira Matsumura, 59th Medical Wing Community Health Element non-commissioned officer in charge. "Raw water is treated before it enters the distribution system and reaches point of use as tap water. E. coli was identified in the system prior to disinfection. The samples downstream, post disinfection, did not indicate any bacterial contamination."
The two wells that indicated positive readings will be flushed and disinfected to ensure elimination of any and all possible bacteria within 24 hours.
"We are taking corrective actions to mitigate the problem," Matsumura added.
General guidelines on ways to lessen the risk of infection by microbes are available from the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791.
"We anticipate resolving the problem within 48 hours," Matsumura said.
For more information, call Staff Sgt. Freddie Camacho at 671-7061.