Published: April 15, 2008
Source: Office of Public Affairs

Trace amounts of common over-the-counter and prescription drugs have been found in our region’s water supply. This information comes from recent news stories, and some people may be worried if tap water is safe.

 

 

What You Should Know

When it comes to our drinking water, it is only natural to be concerned. Fairfax County wants residents to know that it takes these reports seriously. Residents also should know:

• Our drinking water is treated with advanced processes. Learn more about how Fairfax Water treats drinking water to remove medicines.
  
  
• It is no less worrying, but the media says only very low levels of drugs have been found. These amounts are in the parts per trillion. (For comparison, one part per trillion is equal to one second in 32,000 years.)
  
  
• It’s unclear whether low levels of drugs can cause long-term health effects. Scientists have only begun to study this issue, and the science is evolving. However, there is no proof that the amount of drugs found in the water can cause immediate harm.

Right now, there are no federal or state regulations dealing with medicines in the water. The EPA is studying the issue, and Fairfax County is monitoring the federal research. Last year, the Board of Supervisors asked county staff to study the issue.

 

What You Can Do

Our drinking water and wastewater are treated, but you can help.

• Throw unused or unwanted medicines in the trash. Don’t flush them down the toilet —unless specifically directed by the label. Medicines that are flushed can end up in rivers and streams.
  
  
• Stay informed by going to Fairfax Water’s Web site.