Below is a release on a policy statement appearing in the June issue of Pediatrics, the peer-reviewed, scientific journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

For Release: Tuesday, May 26, 12:01 am (ET)

Drinking water for roughly one-sixth of U.S. households comes from private wells, of which there is little regulation. With proper care, well water is extremely safe. However, these wells can become contaminated by chemicals or pathogenic organisms. Because children drink relatively more water than adults, they are more susceptible to the waterborne illnesses that can result from contaminated wells. In a new policy statement, “Drinking Water From Private Wells and Risks to Children,” and accompanying technical report, the AAP offers recommendations for inspection, testing and remediation for wells providing drinking water for children. The statement recommends pediatricians ask families whether they drink water from a well at home, on vacation, when traveling or in child care, especially if they have an infant. Well water can be used safely by families, but annual testing is advised. Bottled water may be a better choice in some cases, such as during travel or when an infant needs water and the source of the tap water is unknown. The statement also includes recommendations to state and local governments to provide free or low-cost testing to families.

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The American Academy of Pediatrics is an organization of 60,000 primary care pediatricians, pediatric medical subspecialists and pediatric surgical specialists dedicated to the health, safety and well being of infants, children, adolescents and young adults.