Contaminated Bacteria Triggers Alert in German City's Drinking Water Supply
In Hannover, Germany, an unusual taste and smell have been detected in the city's drinking water, leading to a drinking water alert. The source of the contamination is predominantly pharmaceutical residues found in the water sources supplying the city, reflecting a broader issue across Germany.
Despite the water appearing clean, recent studies have highlighted that pharmaceutical residues persist in groundwater and surface water, contributing to contamination issues. The contamination is believed to stem from pharmaceutical pollutants entering the waterways, possibly through wastewater and insufficient removal by treatment plants. No specific new contamination incident or source localized solely to Hannover has been identified.
To combat the contamination, the city has been using chlorine treatment to quickly end the drinking water alert. Chlorine has been used for years to disinfect the city's water, and in most cases, it is harmless. Chlorine kills most bacteria and pathogens, improving water quality. However, high doses of chlorine can cause irritation to mucous membranes or skin.
Experts assure the public that the water in Hannover is safe for drinking, washing, and cooking. The duration of the drinking water alert in the city is uncertain, as it may not end after the weekend. The long-term effects of the current water situation in the city are not specified.
The city authorities are working diligently to address the issue and ensure the safety of the drinking water. They are investigating potential solutions to reduce the presence of pharmaceutical residues in the water sources, aiming to restore the quality of the city's drinking water and prevent any future contamination incidents.
[1] Source: [Study on the occurrence and removal of pharmaceutical residues in water bodies across Germany](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/324475553_Study_on_the_occurrence_and_removal_of_pharmaceutical_residues_in_water_bodies_across_Germany)
[2] Source: [Groundwater variability and impacts from droughts in Germany](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/316305621_Groundwater_variability_and_impacts_from_droughts_in_Germany)
- Other studies on groundwater and surface water in Germany have shown that pharmaceutical residues, lasting even after treatment, can contribute to medical-conditions related to health-and-wellness.
- The city authorities are working towards implementing other science-based solutions to reduce the medical-conditions and contamination risks associated with pharmaceutical residues in the drinking water, not just for Hannover, but for health-and-wellness across the nation.
