The Ministry of Health & Wellness has confirmed that some water samples from some systems operated by the National Water Commission have tested positive for E. coli.
Despite that confirmation, however, the health ministry says there is no cause for alarm, and a Boil Water Advisory is not necessary at this time.
In a media release on Tuesday the Ministry of Health & Wellness said occurrences such as these are not unusual, particularly during drought conditions, following pipe breakages, heavy rainfall, or other environmental contamination events.
In such instances, the Ministry says, through its established protocols, it initiates an investigation to determine the cause, assess the extent of contamination, and guide the necessary corrective actions.
This process is carried out in partnership with the NWC, municipal corporations, and other water providers.
Last month, Councillor Jessie James Clarke, junior shadow spokesman on Health & Wellness, declared that the water provided by the NWC in Kingston and St Andrew was unsafe and should be boiled before consumption.
But according to the Health Ministry, a Boil Water Advisory is a public health precaution issued solely by the Medical Officer of Health within each parish.
It says this advisory is issued when there is an imminent risk of water borne disease, and typically applies to a specific geographic area affected by compromised water supply systems.
The Ministry says it continues to monitor the situation closely and remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens.
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