After coliform environmental bacteria (Serratia fonticola) were detected through regular sampling of the drinking water in Chemnitz, eins energie in sachsen and the network operator inetz are working to identify and eliminate the cause. The additional measures introduced, such as flushing and disinfecting the drinking water network, are beginning to have an effect. The latest samples taken on Sunday, the results of which are available today, Monday, show no evidence of bacteria. Sampling will continue to be closely monitored in the coming days. The further course of the sampling is crucial in order to maintain stable results in the long term. For this reason, the network flushing and disinfection measures will continue.
Contamination with the coliform environmental germs previously detected in the drinking water network can only pose a problem for patients with severe immunosuppression. These are, for example, people with stem cell or organ transplants or patients with immune disorders undergoing chemotherapy as well as newborns and premature babies. People with immunodeficiency who are unsure whether they belong to this group should consult their doctor.
Those affected may only consume boiled or packaged drinking water. All others can consume drinking water.
Background
The germ found is a bacterium (Serratia fonticola) that is found everywhere in the environment and should not be confused with intestinal germs such as E. coli.