In the city of Zhdnik located in the Oberhahl region, high levels of bromate have been detected in the drinking water supply, causing serious concerns for residents. According to local authorities, the drinking water is currently not suitable for consumption until further notice and can only be used for hygiene and cleaning purposes.
Health Risks of Bromate
Bromate, known as a salt of bromic acid, may be carcinogenic according to health officials. Therefore, its consumption for drinking, food preparation, cooking, and even washing or rinsing food is strictly prohibited. Special care must be taken with children and infants to ensure that drinking water is not swallowed during showering or bathing.
The city's water and sewage company has announced that they have first informed childcare centers and schools to avoid the use of tap water. Although officials have assured residents that there is no need for concern, they are in contact with the health department and coordinating further actions.
This is the first time that bromate levels have exceeded the permissible limit, and more laboratories are investigating this issue. According to officials, bromate is produced due to the water purification process with ozone, but this process is not carried out at this facility. It now needs to be determined what the source of this increase in levels is.
