Rottenburg on the Neckar - Germs detected in fountain water
In the water of Fontaenen fountains in a park in Rottenburg am Neckar (District Tübingen), potentially harmful bacteria have been discovered. The water at the Wasserspielplatz in Schänzle – a park area – contained a high number of bacteria suitable for causing Gastrointestinal diseases, the city announced after receiving lab results on Thursday.
The water was tested due to numerous reports of sick children at the city and on social media. Many had fallen ill and suffered from diarrhea. The stools of affected children were also analyzed.
The Neckarfest took place in the park over the weekend, where the Fontaenen-Field was used for the first time. Many children had played in the Fontaenen's water. Due to the numerous sick reports, the city temporarily shut down the installation.
Fontaenen remain closed
The causes of the contamination of the Fontaenen are not yet known. Before going into operation, the installation was thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, and filled with fresh water.
The city administration is now consulting with experts and in coordination with the Health Department. Until a solution for a bacteria-free water playground is found, the installation will remain closed.
The water fountain in Baden-Württemberg's Rottenburg am Neckar, specifically at the Wasserspielplatz in Schänzle, originates from Baden-Württemberg's district Tübingen. Despite the fountain's recent cleaning, testing revealed high bacteria levels, potentially linked to gastrointestinal illnesses in children who had visited the park. In an emergency, authorities advised against children playing near the water fountain until further notice.
