Fungi found in water supply near Shelby Green subdivision, boil water advisory issued

Published 4:21 pm Friday, October 14, 2022

It has been brought to the attention of the City of Danville that some water customers in the Shelby Greene Subdivision have experienced suspended particulates in their drinking water. Upon further investigation, this has been confirmed by the City of Danville.

Based on initial laboratory results, the particulates have been identified as a fungus. However, the city is actively working to further identify the fungus and its source to determine remedial measures as needed. Similar types of fungi are commonly found in soil and water. Similar types of fungus are also sometimes found in public water supply.  

A Boil Water Advisory remains in effect for all residents of Shelby Greene Subdivision as a precautionary  measure until further notice. The city recommends the following: Bring all water to a rolling boil, let it boil for three (3) minutes, and let it cool before using, or use bottled water. Boiled or bottled water should  be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, and food preparation until further notice.  

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Kentucky Division of Water has been contacted regarding this issue. Typical regulatory drinking water bacteriological testing and residual chlorine testing results remain normal and within acceptable  regulatory requirements. There currently are no regulatory requirements relative to the presence of fungi  in drinking water systems. However, the City of Danville will continue to investigate the source of the  fungus and work to eliminate the issue as soon as possible. Along with typical flushing methodologies,  the City is proactively working in the field to narrow down and identify those residences in the subdivision  directly affected by this issue. This has not been confirmed to be an issue among all residences in the Shelby Greene Subdivision.  

Though the testing process takes time, the city is proactive in informing and updating the public as  additional information becomes available.  

People with severely compromised immune systems, infants, and some elderly may be at an increased  health risk when exposed to a fungus. Therefore, these individuals should seek advice from their health  care providers about drinking water. It is also recommended that residents consider bathing as opposed  to showering at this time. These recommendations are being made for all residents in Shelby Greene  Subdivision simply out of an abundance of caution and until further notice.  

To the knowledge of the city, such has not been found in any other portion of its public drinking water  system. Customers are encouraged to contact the Danville Water Treatment Plant to report any issue at  859-238-1241.