The Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is lifting the health advisory for the Potomac River. Ongoing water monitoring consistently demonstrates that bacterial concentrations have returned to acceptable parameters, routinely falling within established Environmental Protection Agency safety limits. As a reminder, throughout this incident, Montgomery County’s drinking water has not been affected.
Water conditions have improved enough for recreational activities on the river to resume, but some shoreline areas near the contamination site may still pose a risk due to contaminated soil or sediment. Residents may return to activities like kayaking or rowing, while continuing to avoid entering restricted shoreline areas, disturbing soil or mud near the site, and allowing pets to roam along affected banks until remediation and testing are complete.
Health officials urge the public to avoid contact with the shoreline and river sediment between Lock 11 and the shoreline surrounding Minnie’s Island. It is important to keep children and pets away from these specific environments.
In areas governed by the ongoing health advisory, residents and visitors are advised to take the following proactive measures to mitigate health risks if sediment exposure occurs:
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- Practice Immediate Hygiene: Wash skin and hands thoroughly with soap and clean water after any contact.
- Clean Pets: Owners should thoroughly rinse paws and fur if a pet touches the water.
- Seek Care: Consult a doctor or veterinarian if symptoms like vomiting, rashes, or irritation occur.
- Disinfect Items: Disinfect clothing or other items that contact sediment in the areas of the current Health Advisory.
General Health Guidance
The public should be aware that the Potomac River, like other natural bodies of water, inherently contains varying levels of bacteria. Everyone should avoid ingesting any water from the Potomac River as much as possible. Pets, children, and individuals who have underlying health conditions are at greater risks from a bacterial infection if water is ingested. Significant rainfall often causes bacteria levels to surge for 48 to 72 hours. The public should use additional caution after storms or significant rainfall. Individuals should protect wounds because bacteria harboring in water or sediment significantly increase the likelihood of infections developing in open sores or cuts.
Please report any exposure to DC Water at 202-612-3400. Montgomery County residents or visitors may also report an exposure involving symptoms to DHHS’ Disease Control Office at 240-777-1755.
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For additional information, please visit the Montgomery County Potomac Interceptor webpage.
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Read the original article at mcdhhs