10 Apr 2007

Five American Samoan villages warned of contaminated water

10:20 am on 10 April 2007

Residents of five villages in American Samoa have been advised to boil water before consumption after the local Environmental Protection Agency found bacteria in village water catchment systems.

The EPA says bacteria found in water systems for the villages of Fagamalo, Fagalii, Vatia, Afono and Onenoa could make an individual sick, and are of particular concern for people with weakened immune systems.

Residents of the affected villages have been advised that only boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, baby formula, making ice, brushing teeth and food preparation.