Traces of ARVs in water sources spark government action
A recent scientific study has revealed concerning levels of HIV treatment drugs found in SA water sources, prompting swift action from government departments. The findings raise red flags about wastewater treatment safety, public health and environmental sustainability.
The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has confirmed it will engage North West University (NWU) on a groundbreaking study that detected traces of anti-retroviral (ARV) medication in several local water sources.
The report, titled ‘Quantification, fate and hazard assessment of HIV-ARVs in water resources’, was submitted to the Water Research Commission and compiled by NWU’s Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management and the Africa Unit for Transdisciplinary Health Research.
Key concerns raised:
• High levels of HIV drugs, especially lopinavir and efavirenz, were found downstream of wastewater treatment plants;
• These concentrations exceed global safety norms;
• The drugs likely originate from SA’s large-scale HIV treatment programme, the world’s largest.
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The study attributes the contamination to municipal wastewater systems, which were not designed to remove pharmaceutical compounds like ARVs. This failure results in untreated traces entering rivers and water bodies.
The environmental risks highlighted the presence of ARVs in natural water sources, which pose hidden health and ecological risks, particularly to aquatic life and water treatment processes.
The findings included:
• Developmental damage in freshwater snails exposed to ARVs;
• Disruption of bacteriophages, viruses that help regulate bacteria during wastewater treatment;
• Increased risk of bacterial blooms, which reduce overall water quality.
“The consumption of any exogenous drug by an organism in sufficient quantity might interfere with metabolic regulation,” the report warns.
The DWS reiterated it will engage NWU, the Water Research Commission, and the Department of Health to assess the implications and recommend interventions.
Meanwhile, the CoE recently reassured residents that tap water remains safe and compliant with health standards, even as Rand Water prepares to do essential infrastructure repairs until 07:00 on July 18.
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The key areas affected by temporary supply interruptions include Kempton Park, Germiston, Thembisa, Edenvale and Bedfordview.
“The safety and health of our residents remain our top priority,” the city said in a statement.
“Maintaining our Blue Drop standard – whether through piped supply or tankers – is non-negotiable.”
Report concerns to the city’s call centre on 0860 543 000.
