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Some people may be more vulnerable to contaminants in drinking water than the general population. This may be a result of a weakened immune system from chemotherapy treatment, organ transplants, HIV/AIDS, or other immune system disorders. Some elderly people and infants can also be at high risk.
For people who are immuno-compromised, one contaminant of particular concern is Cryptosporidium. This microscopic organism can cause life-threatening infection for people at risk, although its effects are usually minor and self-correcting for the general public. Cryptosporidium is most commonly spread through poor hygiene or contaminated foods; however there have been occurrences of exposure from drinking water.
In 2006, there was no evidence of Cryptosporidium in water leaving Metropolitan’s Jensen Water Treatment Plant, which disinfects water supplied to LVMWD or at LVMWD’s Westlake Filtration Plant.
People with weakened immune systems are encouraged to seek the advice of their health-care providers about drinking water safety. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention both provide comprehensive information about Cryptosporidium, including guidelines for how to reduce the risk of infection. Contact information is included in this report under "More Information." |
