Mayor Weaver Turns to Trusted Local Doctor for Advice on Bathing in Flint

March 14, 2016 (Flint, Mich) — As Flint residents continue to deal with the effects of the man-made water disaster in the city, Mayor Weaver wants residents to be informed with accurate information about the situation. When it comes to bathing in unfiltered tap water in Flint, trusted local pediatrician Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha says based on current scientific testing, it is safe.

She does advise parents to take precautions however, like limiting the time kids are in the water. “As a mom, I would give my kids quick showers. I would be careful not to let them sit in or drink the water,” said Hanna-Attisha of Hurley Medical Center.

She said bathing older children in the water should be okay, but urges being extra careful with babies. She suggests parents reduce the temperature of the water as much as possible since heat increases the concentration of lead. “Bathing in lukewarm water is probably the best,” said Hanna-Attisha. Heath experts say that is best for adults as well, quick showers instead of baths using warm water not hot.

Dr. Hanna-Attisha says people who are bathing in the water and don’t notice any problems, are probably okay to continue doing so. She advises those who notice problems, like rashes on their skin, to call 211. “They’ve formed a rash investigation team. If you contact them, they’ll come out and help determine the cause of the skin irritation.”

Dr. Mona’s work helped expose the lead contamination problem in Flint. Mayor Weaver, a Flint resident herself, considers Dr. Mona a reliable source. Mayor Weaver says she will continue to follow her advice.