A.W. Research Laboratories, Inc.

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The Following Tests Are Required By The State For Daycare Or Foster Care

 

Coliform Bacteria and Nitrates

Coliform bacteria causes health symptoms related to drinking or swallowing water contaminated with bacteria.   The symptoms generally range from no ill effects to cramps and diarrhea (gastrointestinal distress).  In very rare cases, Coliform Bacteria can cause hemolytic uremic syndrome, a serious kidney condition.  If you live within the city limits and have municipal drinking water you can call your local water supplier (the number is right on your water bill) and request a copy of the city water test results.

High nitrate levels in drinking water pose a risk to infants because they may cause methemologlobinemi, a condition known as “blue baby syndrome.”  High nitrate levels interrupt the normal body processes of some infants.  Nitrate becomes toxic when it is transformed to nitrite, a process that can occur in the stomach as well as in the saliva.  Infants are especially susceptible because their stomach juices are less acidic and therefore are conducive to the growth of nitrate-reducing bacteria.  (Adults can consume large quantities of nitrates in drinking water or food with no known ill effects; their stomachs produce strong acids that do not promote the growth of bacteria that convert nitrate to nitrite.) Nitrite in the blood combines with hemoglobin to form met-hemoglobin, which reduces the capability of the blood to carry oxygen to all parts of the body.  This results in the “blue” condition of the baby’s skin.  The infant is being asphyxiated because oxygen cannot be transported by the blood.  Prompt medical attention normally results in quick recovery of the infant.

 

· There is no allowable limit for bacteria in drinking water.

· The Public Health Limit for Nitrate is 10mg/L.

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daycare/foster-care water tests