The Navy is working to determine the source and eliminate the presence of E. Coli bacteria in the potable water aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72).
The problem was identified after sailors on the aircraft carrier detected an odor and cloudy appearance in the water during operations off the California coast.
Engineers and medical personnel then conducted tests and found the bacteria in three of the Lincoln’s 26 potable water tanks. Even though the visual signs and odor apparently had disappeared within a few days, the crew nonetheless isolated the three tanks and gave shipmates access to free bottled water.
Further tests conducted by a private California firm determined that all of the Lincoln’s drinking water met standards for pH, turbidity, the presence of metals, sodium, and hardness. Based on those results, all of the potable water tanks on the ship have been cleared for use. The affected tanks will be deep-cleaned and inspected during the ship’s maintenance period.
None of the Lincoln’s sailors have experienced any symptoms of disease or illness related to E. Coli. The ship has returned to its homeport, Naval Air Station North Island, California, and is now connected to the city of San Diego water supply.
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