Water, Sanitation, and COVID-19

As the coronavirus crisis spreads throughout the world, it is increasingly evident that people with the least access to water will feel the most dramatic effects. Major health organizations advise washing hands more frequently – for at least 20 seconds to prevent outbreaks. Yet 3 billion people, 40% of the world’s population, lack access to necessary hand-washing facilities in their homes.

The virus that causes COVID-19 has not been detected in drinking water. Conventional water treatment methods that use filtration and disinfection, such as those in most municipal drinking water systems, should remove or inactivate the virus that causes COVID-19. According to the WHO, while persistence in drinking-water is possible, there is no current evidence that coronaviruses are present in surface or groundwater sources or transmitted through contaminated drinking water.

There is no evidence that COVID-19 can be spread to humans through the use of pools, hot tubs or spas, or water playgrounds. Proper operation, maintenance, and disinfection (e.g., with chlorine and bromine) of pools, hot tubs or spas, and water playgrounds should inactivate the virus that causes COVID-19.

While there is an ongoing community spread of COVID-19, there should be appropriate care taken both in and outside the pool. Owners and operators of community pools, hot tubs, or spas should follow the interim guidance to plan and respond to COVID-19.

Center for Disease Control (CDC) is reviewing all data on COVID-19. That, the risk of transmission of the virus that causes COVID-19 through sewerage systems is thought to below. Although transmission of the virus that causes COVID-19 through sewage may be possible, there is no evidence to date that this has occurred. This guidance will be updated as necessary as new evidence is assessed.

Wastewater and sewage workers should use standard practices, practice necessary hygiene precautions, and wear personal protective equipment (PPE) as prescribed for current work tasks.

Finally, In most cases, it is safe to wash your hands with soap and tap water during a Boil Water Advisory. Follow the guidance from your local public health officials. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol