COVID-19 FAQs for Borough

Overview

This document compiles frequently asked questions regarding the presence of the coronavirus in drinking water and wastewater, based on guidance from the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The information was compiled on March 14, 2020.

Drinking Water Safety

• Tap Water Safety: The EPA and World Health Organization (WHO) state that the risk to water supplies is low. There is no evidence of the virus in drinking-water supplies, and standard treatment processes are effective at removing or killing pathogens.
• Boiling Water: Boiling is not required as a precaution against COVID-19.
• Hand Washing: Tap water is safe for hand washing. The CDC recommends washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds to prevent the spread of the virus.
• Bottled Water: There is no need to buy bottled water or store drinking water. The EPA confirms there are no indications that COVID-19 is in the supply or will affect reliable water access.

Homeowner Guidance

• Public Water Systems: Homeowners can contact their utility provider to learn about treatment methods, which may include filtration and disinfectants like chlorine.
• Private Wells: Homeowners with private wells concerned about pathogens may consider certified home treatment devices that remove bacteria and viruses.

Wastewater and Sewage

• Transmission Risk: The WHO states there is no evidence that COVID-19 has been transmitted via sewerage systems. The CDC notes the risk is thought to be low, though transmission through sewage aerosols has been documented in past outbreaks like SARS.
• Treatment: Wastewater plants treat viruses effectively using standard disinfection processes. Septic systems are also expected to manage the virus safely if properly installed and maintained.
• Worker Safety: Wastewater workers should follow standard practices, including engineering controls and the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). No additional COVID-19 specific protections are currently recommended beyond standard safety protocols.

Pools and Hot Tubs

• There is no evidence that COVID-19 spreads through pools or hot tubs. Proper operation and disinfection (e. g. , with chlorine or bromine) are sufficient to inactivate the virus.

Fecal-Oral Transmission

• The virus has been detected in the feces of some patients, but it is unknown if the virus in stool is infectious.
• The risk of transmission from feces is expected to be low based on data from previous outbreaks (SARS and MERS). There have been no reports of fecal-oral transmission to date.