More than 12, 500 people in “Saint John the Baptist” parish are at risk: A brain-eating amoeba was detected in the water system. People in Reserve, Garyville and Mount Airy are advised to take precaution.
A water sample taken two weeks ago by the department of health and hospitals tested positive for the potentially deadly bacteria. They also found the parish drinking water was not in compliance with state-mandated disinfectant levels.
This is the same kind of amoeba found in both Saint Bernard and Desoto parishes that’s blamed for two deaths. However, health officials say the bacteria is only harmful if ingested through the nose.
Local residents said, “You need water. We boil it first before you use it.” Health officials stated, “We’re taking every step necessary to relieve St. John Water District number one of that threat.
Children stated, “They need to clean this because I need to take a clean bath. And we are dirty.”
A chlorine burn through the water system will start as the first thing in the morning followed by a 60 day wait to see if the brain-eating amoeba has been flushed out.
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