AWWA JAW70991

Drinking water that is supplied from groundwater wells is often not treated before distribution to consumers. The recent association in Arizona between nonchlorinated drinking water and Naegleria fowleri infection suggests that head immersion in a nonchlorinated water source could lead to transmission of the organism. The study that is presented in this article was undertaken to determine the occurrence of N. fowleri in drinking water wells in Arizona. The outcome of the research was that N. fowleri was detected in 10.6% of the wells studied. Water suppliers should consider monitoring their wells for the presence of Naegleria fowleri, particularly in states with warmer waters. If the organism is found, utilities should consider treating such waters prior to distribution to increase the level of public health protection because the presence of such a pathogen in untreated well water may pose a public health threat. Includes 24 references, tables, figure.