Legionnaires’ Disease Risk: Viral Video Shows Devotees Consuming AC Water as Holy Water
A recent video has gone viral showing temple devotees unknowingly drinking wastewater from air conditioners (AC), mistaking it for “charanamrit” (holy water)
A recent video has gone viral showing temple devotees unknowingly drinking wastewater from air conditioners (AC), mistaking it for “charanamrit” (holy water). The video, shared on social media platform X, reveals individuals filling paper cups with water dripping from a stone head at the temple. The narrator warns viewers, stating, “The priest told me that this is not charanamrit. It’s actually the wastewater from the AC. You may fall ill or get infected if you drink this water.” This incident has raised serious health concerns, with healthcare professionals cautioning the public about the risks involved. Dr. Cyriac Abby Philips, a clinician-scientist widely known as “The Liver Doctor” on social media, reacted to the video by urging people to avoid drinking AC water. He highlighted that air conditioning systems are breeding grounds for harmful bacteria, which can lead to severe health complications.
In a post, Dr. Philips explained that AC water often contains the bacterium Legionella, which causes Legionnaires’ disease. This potentially fatal respiratory illness can result from inhaling contaminated water droplets or accidentally swallowing small amounts of the infected water. Dr. Philips further explained that Legionnaires’ disease can manifest as either Pontiac fever, a milder form of the illness, or a severe, pneumonia-like infection that may be fatal. In addition to respiratory symptoms, legionella infections can result in more serious complications, such as brain dysfunction and nerve-related issues. The doctor emphasized the need for public awareness to prevent such incidents, noting that education is crucial to avoid exposure to these hidden health risks. He concluded by urging people to exercise caution when handling or consuming unknown water sources, especially in public spaces.
