The Regional Health Directorate of the Azoes said yesterday, in a note published on the Government Portal, that an environmental investigation had been carried out, with samples of thermal waters being taken from Caldeira Velha, Poça da Dona Beija and Parque Terra Nostra, on the island of São Miguel.
The laboratory analysis of the samples taken was carried out by INSA and the results were compatible with microbiological contamination. As such, good public health practice dictates that when the result of a microbiological analysis of water is unfit for purpose, measures must be taken to guarantee the safety of the population.


Thus, using the “Precautionary Principle”, the DRS decided to apply the following measures to the sites identified: close the spaces; exclude the public from the tanks; carry out shock disinfection; drain, clean and disinfect the tanks and accessories; review the control measures and risk assessment; carry out new analyses after filling the tanks; maintain the closure until the risk assessment has given satisfactory results.
These instructions have been given to the management entities of the spaces in question, who are collaborating in an active and committed manner.
The Regional Health Directorate says in the published note that it will continue to monitor the situation, applying the measures that prove necessary to protect public health, and ensuring adequate vigilance so that these spaces continue to be visited as safely as possible.

in Correio dos Açores-Natalino Viveiros, director

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