Germs in cistern water

Question

Hello,

my adult daughter (CF) lives in her own home but she also stays at our home frequently, especially to get some fresh air and sun in the garden. Our neighbour waters his garden with cistern water. Yesterday in the evening I noticed a disgusting smell like liquid manure. The water has obviously collapsed by bacterial contamination. To what extent can the water which is sprayed in my neighbour's garden could be dangerous for my daughter? I would like to inform my neighbour about a possible danger and would like to give the right arguments. He has two little children himself (5 years; one week!).

Many thanks.

Answer

Dear questioner,

using a cistern for watering the garden is certainly commendable and when used adequately the germ count in the rain water is inconspicuous. Water from cisterns should not "stink", though. Such an odour nuisance is always a sign for "microbial contamination" of the water. Insufficient oxygen enrichment of a cistern can, e.g., lead to the growth of bacteria that do not tolerate oxygen (anaerobian). When "spraying" the water there are little water droplets (aerosoles) that are spread in the air. If the water is contaminated with bacteria, such aerosoles could be inhaled by persons that are close-by. This could cause problems for CF patients since the lung of the patients can be colonized by the most exceptional bacteria.

Best regards,
Barbara Kahl

20.09.2012