ARVs in the water: Department of Health calls for serious action

The Department of Health believes that while the discovery of antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) in the country's tap water and rivers means those needing them are taking them, there is a need for stakeholders who clean our water to be more responsible.

DoH spokesperson Foster Mohale was talking to IOL following the release of a report that revealed alarming levels of ARVs in SA's water resources.

"The discovery of the drugs in the water is a net positive because it shows that people are taking the lifesaving medicine.

"The responsibility lies with those who deal with wastewater. They need to find a way to address this issue," said Mohale.

He pointed to a bigger issue of water not being properly treated, resulting in people getting ill.

"When water leaves our bathrooms, it doesn't go to dams and rivers but treatment plants. The Department of Water and Sanitation is responsible for ensuring this."

The research, undertaken by the University of the North West revealed that significant concentrations of ARVs in water sources, particularly downstream of wastewater treatment plants.

According to the report, freshwater snails exposed to the ARVs showed altered embryonic development. It also revealed that critical bacteria-controlling viruses were significantly impacted.

The report further noted that 'the consumption of any type of exogenous drug by any organism in sufficient quantities may interfere with the regulation of metabolic systems and bring about adverse effects. The presence of antiretrovirals in water can be considered a hidden or latent risk'.

Human risk

The report also showed potential risks for humans.

"Humans are also exposed to these compounds via drinking water, and at concentrations exceeding calculated hazard quotients. Although not found in this study, humans and other organisms may potentially ingest antiretrovirals and their breakdown products via aquatic organisms such as fish," the report noted.

Some water sources, according to the study, some water sources exceeded the acceptable thresholds and potentially pose long-term health risks to humans.

Meanwhile, the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) says it has noted the findings of the report.

Department spokesperson, Wisane Mavasa explained that the ARVs appear to be entering the water resource through municipal wastewater treatment systems, which were usually not designed to remove such chemicals.

"The department will engage the university on the study findings and associated possible impacts. This will be done in conjunction with Water Research Commission and the Department of Health.

IOL