Fountain Concerns

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Q:  Should I be concerned about germs at outdoor water fountains?

A:  We are told about how important it is to stay hydrated when it is hot out.  A lot of you may be out and about using local parks and greenways.  But, with all the talk we have had about viruses going around and practicing good hygiene this is a good question.

Dr, Muddasar Chaudry is an infection control expert for Lewis Gale Medical Center, he says,” It should be perfectly safe to drink from a public water fountain.  Make sure you keep your mouth several inches from the spigot and let the water run for a second or two.”

He also says the button you push for the water likely would have more germs on it than the spigot.  In that regard, a water fountain would be no different that a door knob at a restaurant or hand rail at the park.

He says, bottom line we should always make sure we are washing our hands to keep the spread of germs to a minimum.