Germs found again

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Water bottles are distributed at Steyer Hospital.(Bild: OÖG)

Steyr Hospital is once again struggling with germs in its tap water after 2020. Water bottles are being distributed to both patients and staff because "coliform bacteria" have been found in samples. Where they come from is still unclear. The all-clear could be given by the end of the week at the earliest. 

The alarm bells were ringing again at the hospital in Steyr. "Coliform bacteria" were found in the tap water. This is probably an indication of faecal contamination. However, the germs could also originate from the soil. 

Water must not be used
While the experts are still looking for the cause, the hospital management issued a ban on the use of drinking water. Water bottles are being distributed to hospital staff and patients. This is only intended as a precautionary measure.

Great uncertainty
There is a great deal of uncertainty in Steyr. The hospital was already struggling with contaminated water in summer 2020. Faecal bacteria were also detected back then. The pipes had to be disinfected. The drinking water was then purified by heating, additional flushing of the affected water outlets and UV irradiation.