False Positive Creates Panic
In a surprising turn of events, new test results have revealed that the tap water in Jackson, Mississippi, does not contain dangerous bacteria, contrary to what state health officials initially reported. The previous positive test for E. coli was deemed a false positive, according to Ted Henifin, Jackson’s interim water manager.
Confusion Surrounds Initial Warning
Ted Henifin expressed his confusion and frustration with the Mississippi Department of Health for issuing a city-wide boil water notice without verifying the initial lab results. Henifin emphasized the negative impact this premature warning has had on public confidence in the water system and the local economy.
Unconnected Water Systems Create Doubt
Henifin argued that the likelihood of both Jackson and the nearby suburb of Flowood having contaminated water at the same time is minimal. He explained that the two cities have separate water systems and are not interconnected. Despite this, the boil-water notice remains in effect until clean results are obtained from 120 sample locations over two consecutive days.
Long-Term Troubles and Reforms
Jackson’s water system has faced significant challenges in recent years, with infrastructure breakdowns leading to prolonged periods without safe running water for many residents. In November 2022, Ted Henifin was appointed by a federal judge to oversee reforms and address the issues plaguing the city’s water system.
Michael Goldberg is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Follow him at @mikergoldberg.