MSWD Water Quality Unaffected by COVID-19

DEESRT HOT SPRINGS – In response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, Mission Springs Water District (MSWD) will continue to provide safe, reliable water and is being proactive to assure quality water and wastewater services will remain if the COVID-19 arrives to the Desert Hot Springs area, according to a news release.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that COVID-19 is transmitted from person to person. Similar to the flu, there is no evidence that the virus is transmitted through drinking water; however, current disinfection methods used by the District to disinfect water, such as the use of chlorine, are known to be effective against the COVID-19.

To prevent the spread of COVID-19, District employees are exercising preventative measures provided by the CDC. MSWD has also activated a response plan which includes having employees stay at home when sick, keeping the office disinfected by the use of cleaners and hand sanitizers, postponing large staff gatherings and instituting working from home protocols, if necessary.

MSWD is asking customers, vendors or other visitors who are experiencing cold or flu-like symptoms, to avoid visiting the District’s offices and conduct business through use of phone, email or online. Customers can use the e-pay system in order to pay their bill electronically.

MSWD is closely monitoring this rapidly evolving situation. Any vital and important information will be released to the public as it is received.

Riverside County currently has eight confirmed cases – six in Coachella Valley and two cruise ship passengers who have not returned to the region since being diagnosed. Dr. Kaiser urges seniors and those with underlying health issues in the Coachella Valley to limit non-essential travel. One of the Coachella Valley cases is considered “community spread,” meaning health investigators have not determined the source of the infection.

For more information and to review frequently asked questions about your water and COVID-19, community members are encouraged to visit the MSWD website by clicking here.