EPA gels efforts to identify sensitive members of population

Jan. 5, 2001—A new report from the Environmental Protection Agency identifies sensitive members of the population that may be at greater health risk than the general public from exposure to drinking water contaminants.

The report was delivered to Congress Dec. 19.

Currently available studies suggest that certain subpopulations, such as infants, children and those with weakened immune systems, are more sensitive to waterborne pathogens than the general population.

The report also summarizes additional health effects studies which the agency is undertaking on drinking water contaminants and sensitive subpopulations. Additional information is available on EPA's Office of Water home page at: http://www.epa.gov/ow , under "What's New."