Private wells at low risk of transmitting COVID-19Private wells at low risk of transmitting COVID-19

Private water wells are at low risk of transmitting the COVID-19 virus, according to a report, “Groundwater, Wells, and Coronavirus," authored by National Ground Water Association Director of Science and Technology William M. Alley, Ph.D., and NGWA Regulatory Affairs Manager Charles A. Job. But even with low risk, various viruses, including COVID-19, are still a potential threat to drinking water from private wells.

“There’s more to be learned about the behavior of the COVID-19 virus in water and wastewater,” Alley said.

Maintenance of well water and wastewater septic systems is the most effective action to protect against virus contamination, the report said.

In addition to proper maintenance, treatment can be another important defense against pathogens in water supply. Distillation, ultraviolet (UV) treatment, and reverse osmosis technologies for households are all effective in removing viruses from a water.

Source: National Ground Water Association, which is solely responsible for the information provided and is wholly owned by the source. Informa Business Media and all its subsidiaries are not responsible for any of the content contained in this information asset.