Drinking water ban remains in force in Elshani and Velestovo (Ohrid)
Center for Public Health confirms fecal contamination; residents told to use only bottled water while follow-up sampling is planned.
After nearly two weeks the water supply in the Ohrid villages of Elshani and Velestovo remains prohibited for drinking. The latest analyses by the Center for Public Health (CPH) confirmed the presence of fecal bacteria, Escherichia coli, enterococci and coliform bacteria.
In Velestovo bacteria were detected at the spring that feeds the local system, prompting continued restriction of use. In Elshani, tests of the village distribution network did not find bacteria, but the water is still considered unusable because the proper chlorination that health authorities urged nearly two weeks ago was not carried out.
Health advice and next steps
Residents of both areas are being advised to use exclusively bottled water for drinking and for hygienic needs until the situation is resolved. Authorities emphasised that the absence of bacteria in the distribution network does not remove the risk as long as source contamination and incomplete disinfection persist.
The Center for Public Health announced it will collect follow-up samples in the coming days to monitor the situation and determine when the ban can be lifted. Local officials have been urged to perform the recommended chlorination and other corrective measures as a priority.
Until repeat testing shows consistently safe results, officials maintain the prohibition on using tap water for consumption in the affected settlements and ask citizens to follow the protective guidance.
Photo: press material from the event
