Concern raised over high coliform content in wells

CEBU, Philippines – The City Council has requested the city health department to immediately treat and rehabilitate deep wells in different barangays here that reportedly have high coliform content.

There are over 1,000 deep wells in Cebu City and those found with the highest contamination are situated in Barangay Talamban and other upland barangays.

In a resolution, Councilor Nida Cabrera, chairperson of the committee on environment, said she is worried about reports that some deep wells here have coliform content reaching 16 MPN (most probably number) per 100 millimiter.

The acceptable level of bacteria per 100 millimiter of water is reportedly only 1.1 MPN.

Coliforms are bacteria present in the digestive tracts of animals, including humans, and are found in their wastes.

The Council also asked the health department to submit a report of its progress.

Water pollution caused by fecal contamination is a serious problem due to the potential for contracting diseases from pathogens.

Laboratory experts explained that the disease-causing organism cannot be seen, tasted, and smelled that is why they have recommended that well owners should test their water for coliform bacteria at least once a year.

But if a deep well have experienced bacteria problems in the past, it is recommended that it must be tested frequently. If coliform bacteria are present in the drinking water the risk of contracting a water-borne illness is increased.

Cabrera advised the public to always boil their water until disinfection and retesting can confirm that contamination has been eliminated. (THE FREEMAN)