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Schwangau: Drinking water all-clear after enterococci warning!
Passau: Current information on enterococci in drinking water, health warnings and measures to ensure the safety of residents.
Schwangau: Drinking water all-clear after enterococci warning!
In recently reported cases in Schwangau, the drinking water was heavily contaminated, so residents had to boil it. A routine inspection revealed enterococci bacteria in the water system on September 9, 2025, resulting in a boil order. This request applied not only to drinking water, but also to preparing food and brushing teeth. Fortunately, the all-clear was given on September 12th: the Ostallgäu Health Department lifted the boiling order and confirmed that drinking water can now be used without restrictions Mercury reported.
But what exactly are enterococci? These bacteria can be found, among other things, in the intestines of humans and animals and are considered indicators of fecal contamination in drinking water. Their discovery may be due to hygiene problems or technical malfunctions in the water system. While the enterococci themselves do not grow in water, they can enter drinking water from external sources, such as leaky water pipes or sewers. The limit value for enterococci in drinking water in Germany is ideally zero per 100 milliliters, explains BR.
Health risks and precautions
The dangers posed by enterococci should not be underestimated. They can cause gastrointestinal illnesses such as diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, among other things. People with weakened immune systems are particularly at risk, as some strains can lead to life-threatening conditions such as blood poisoning. The water testing system clearly shows that even the clearest water can be contaminated because enterococci are not visible to the naked eye. It is therefore advisable to have the water tested regularly Filter your water emphasized.
If you suspect contamination, please take the following measures seriously: If you have symptoms such as unexplained diarrhea or other gastrointestinal illnesses, you should arrange for a water test immediately. Better to be safe than sorry and use bottled water until the situation becomes clear. Boiling water – bubbling for at least two minutes – is also essential if enterococci are detected.
The city of Schwangau now plans to take further samples to identify the source of the contamination. But it wasn't just Schwangau that had to contend with such water contamination recently. Enterococci were also discovered in the water in Passau just a few weeks ago. This shows that the issue of hygiene in the drinking water system affects us all and our actions make a decisive contribution to health.