But is it safe to drink? Ever since drinking tap water contaminated with the
parasite cryptosporidium caused illness and even the death of many persons with
AIDS in Milwaukee in 1993, there have been questions about water safety. This
tiny microorganism, common in many of the lakes and rivers that provide
drinking water in the US, is difficult for water utility plants to detect and
even more difficult to remove or destroy. People with HIV disease who acquire
cryptosporidium are at increased risk for severe intestinal disease and
life-threatening illness. All of this is complicated by the fact that adequate
hydration is vital for a body under stress from HIV infection.
There are, however, effective methods for minimizing the risk of exposure to
waterborne organisms. Though there have been less than 10 outbreaks in as many
years, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) has issued water safety guidelines
for persons with severely suppressed immune systems, especially AIDS. These
focus on boiling water, the use of home filters, and drinking bottled water and
“bubbly” drinks. There are also important precautions for those who enjoy
swimmining and other forms of water recreation.
In order to respond to questions and concerns about water safety for persons
with HIV, AIDS Services of Austin (ASA) is sponsoring a presentation by Bob
Blodgett, Ph.D., an expert in public drinking water with the Texas Natural
Resources and Conservation Commission (TNRCC). “Drinking Water: How Much Do I
Need?… Is It Safe?” will be offered on Tuesday, August 6, 6:30pm at ASA, 825
E. 531/2 St., Room 104. This education program will address the
quality of Central Texas water, how to evaluate home filters and bottled
waters, precautions during water recreation, and offer practical options for
assuring the safest water possible. People with HIV disease, their caregivers
and health care providers are invited to attend this free event.
One of the best options for meeting environmental challenges to an
individual’s well-being is that of taking a proactive role in preventing
exposure. In other words, in the face of potentially life-threatening disease
there is life-supporting action.
This education program is part of ASA’s monthly “Living, Working & You”
series for persons living with and affected by HIV disease. For more
information about this program and others in August please call 406-6409.
Sylvia J. Lopez, M.S.
Wellness Program Coordinator
This article appears in August 2 • 1996 and August 2 • 1996 (Cover).