Kretinga Residents Are Advised Not to Use Well Water in Food Production
The National Public Health Centre (NPHC) informs that in Kretinga, due to a heavy rainfall, water collectors were overflown and water flooded some of the streets in Kretinga. The wells are now also filled. In response to this situation, the NPHC urges the population not to use well water in food production, as water may be contaminated with chemicals or microorganisms. It is advisable to use bottled drinking water.
Nitrites and nitrates are some of the chemicals that can contaminate well water as a result of heavy rainfall and are dangerous to health.
The main source of nitrates and nitrites in soil or water is nitrogenous substances from fertilisers, manure, sewage etc.
The main source of absorbed nitrates and nitrites in the body is green vegetables for adults and contaminated drinking water used to prepare baby formula. Poisoning with these nitrogen compounds can lead to methaemoglobinaemia. This results in a lack of oxygen in the body tissues. This condition is particularly dangerous in infants under 6 months of age.
It is recommended that wells are cleaned and disinfected after a flood and that well water is tested.
Families with babies under 6 months of age or pregnant women who use well water for food can contact NPHC to have it tested for nitrite and nitrate contamination. The tests are carried out at public expense.
For more information visit the website
Last updated: 08-11-2023
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