GWI disinfects Tapakuma Well after 15 affected by Typhoid

Following reports that some residents of Tapakuma, Region 2, have contracted Typhoid, the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) helped the community to disinfect its well.

In a statement on Saturday, GWI said reports were received from the Community Health Centre of some 10-15 persons having displayed symptoms of Typhoid, with the majority testing positive for the infection.

Reports are that villagers practice rainwater harvesting and dig their own ponds since the community well which was drilled by the Regional Administration, is supported by aged infrastructure and produces water with high iron content.

GWI said it was found that the distribution network is made up of inappropriately sized pipelines that were run improperly more than four years ago with no flush out points.

“High levels of iron compounded the situation, causing incrustation and a reduction in the diameter of the pipes. This also resulted in persons at the end of the network receiving a low level of service… The photovoltaic system that powers the system was also incorrectly installed, standing in the way of the tanks,” the entity said.

Efforts were made to upgrade the current network by installing flush out valves, disinfecting lines and reducing the iron content in the water by flushing and rodding out the lines where necessary.

GWI said it also helped to clean four tanks connected to the well while the Toshao of the Tapakuma community committed to clean the other four which could not be immediately accessed.

The lines were flushed to improve the service level and water quality.

The Toshao was advised to ensure the tanks are cleaned every 2-3 months to maintain the improved water quality they are now receiving, GWI said.