Over 2,000 Sickened, 88 Dead in U.S. From Contaminated Drinking Water Outbreaks 2015-2020
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214 disease outbreaks from contaminated drinking water occurred in the U.S. from 2015-2020, causing over 2,000 illnesses and 88 deaths
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Legionella bacteria was the leading culprit, accounting for over a third of illnesses and almost all hospitalizations and deaths
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Outbreaks frequently occurred in health care facilities and hotels
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Aging infrastructure, faulty home water treatment, and construction contamination contributed to outbreaks
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The CDC advises boiling water, using certified filters, flushing taps, and maintaining appliances to ensure safe drinking water