Harvey floodwaters carry high levels of E coli, toxins

Precautions needed when returning to flooded buildings, public health experts said


Tests have shown that floodwaters in two Houston areas have been contaminated with bacteria and toxins, according to an article on The New York Times website.

It is not clear how far the toxic waters have spread, but there have been breaches at numerous waste treatment plants.

Water flowing down Briarhills Parkway in the Houston Energy Corridor contained Escherichia coli, a measure of fecal contamination, at a level more than four times that considered safe.

The E.P.A. and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality have expressed concern about toxic floodwaters, but have not made public the results of sampling they may have done.

Read the article.

 

 



September 18, 2017


Topic Area: Infection Control


Recent Posts

What To Know Now About OSHA's Updated Hazcom Rule

The update requires careful attention because compliance is not optional, and OSHA has set firm deadlines extending through 2028.


HealthSource of Ohio and UC Health Partner for New Medical Office Building

Construction is anticipated to be completed in 2028.


NorthShore Health Centers Investigates Data Security Incident  

The organization became aware of suspicious activity on its computer network on or around Aug. 10, 2026, and took steps to secure its systems.


Healthcare Ransomware Attacks Reach Record High in Q3 2026

The report documented 306 ransomware attacks against healthcare organizations in Q3.


Bon Secours Mercy Health Acquires Fauquier Health

Fauquier Health is a 97-bed acute care community hospital serving Fauquier County and the broader Warrenton region.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.