Water bacteria scare alarms residents
A number of cases of the naturally occurring bacteria, Cryptosporidium, have been confirmed in New Ross Town. These may be linked to the public water supply, Wexford County Council said.
As a precautionary measure, until the source of the contamination is found, all those using the supply have been urged to boil their water for at least one minute before using it for drinking, washing or general household use.
Wexford County engineer, Gerry Forde, said the recommendation will stand into next week. He said it was also being recommended that New Ross' swimming pool be closed.
"This is purely a precautionary measure not just because of the fear of water contamination. We fear that people at the pool might have the bacteria in their system and might pass it on," he said.
New Ross has one of the most sophisticated water treatment systems but the bacteria can pass through even the most up-do-date processes. "Unfortunately this bug is not detected during normal testing and even with a very good water treatment system like we have in New Ross, it can pass through the filters.
"We are erring on the side of caution, after consultation with the health board," said Mr Forde.
The young and elderly or those with a low immunity system are most vulnerable to infection.
Wexford County Council has set up a helpline for local residents. It can be contacted on (053) 76447.
