Steering clear of the water on airplanes may save people from drinking
the harmful contaminants swimming around in it. According to random
water tests administered to 169 U.S. passenger planes, the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) found contamination by fecal coliform bacteria
on about 17 percent of them -- almost a 5 percent increase from previous
tests.
The first round of tests detected the presence of E. coli -- known
to cause serious disease, diarrhea and nausea -- in some planes. The
results of whether or not E. coli was present in the second round
of tests is still being disputed.
Possible Sources of Contamination
- Local water supplies
- Unsanitary water-hose nozzles
- Incorrect tank-filling procedures
- Tainted pumping systems
- Passengers themselves
It is difficult to pinpoint the exact source of contamination,
as airlines can take on water numerous times a day in different
cities, some overseas. And while the coliform bacteria itself does
not necessarily pose a health danger, it might indicate the presence
of other dangerous disease-causing organisms.
The solution? Major airlines have signed memorandums of agreement
with the EPA requiring the airlines to disinfect both the trucks
that bring the water to the planes, as well as the planes that hold
water, every three months. The airlines agreed to test their water
systems once a year.
The EPA also suggested that passengers with weak immune systems,
such as those with cancer or HIV and transplant patients, request
canned or bottled drinks. It is also wise to avoid coffee or tea
made with tap water, using ice cubes, brushing teeth with airline
bathroom water and perhaps even washing hands with bathroom water.
USA
Today January 19, 2005
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