Water Microbiology Section

Helicobacter pylori testing

Helicobacter pylori are a bacteria species that cause peptic ulcers in humans. Currently, the human and animal (warm-blooded) stomach and intestinal tract is the only proven domain of the pathogen. However, research shows evidence that H. pylori also exists in the environment (surface & ground water, manure, vegetables, etc.) and could be transmitted to humans who unintentionally consume the contaminants.

H. pylori is easily killed by chlorinating at levels used by WI municipalities. Therefore, the risk of its presence in municipal water is low, and we suggest that municipal water samples NOT be tested for H. pylori. It is theorized that private wells under certain conditions COULD BE reservoirs for H. pylori. The following criteria should be considered in deciding whether or not to have your private well water tested for the presence of H. pylori.

• Consumer(s) of the well water suffer ulcers and/or H. pylori infection.
• The well has not been serviced (inspected and/or sanitized) for several years.
• The physical condition of the well is in question (i.e. loose or corroded well cap, corroded casing, visible biofilms, etc.)

Substantial preparation is required for this assay and sampling must be pre-arranged by phone (608 224 6262) to WSLH. To date, no WI wells have tested positive for H. pylori, even though researchers continue to suggest that water is an environment for the pathogen, and requests from WI residents for testing persists.