Drinking water notice issued for RAF Lakenheath Published Jan. 13, 2012 By Staff Reports 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- The 48th Medical Group issued a public notice of slightly elevated nitrate levels in the drinking water system used by RAF Lakenheath, Jan. 13. The elevated levels were confirmed Jan. 11 and corrective actions have been taken by the 48th Aerospace Medicine Squadron Bioenvironmental Engineering Flight. "We recommend no action be taken on individuals' part at this time," said Lt. Col. Stephen Gaboriault, 48 AMDS BE flight commander. "If the time ever arises when the levels become a health risk, we will take immediate actions to inform you and make specific recommendations." The nitrate concentration level for the verified sample was measured at 13 milligrams per liter (mg/L). This level exceeded the maximum contaminant level of 10 mg/L set forth in the 2010 Final Governing Standard for the United Kingdom. There is a possibility of infants below the age of six months who drink water containing high levels of nitrates developing a rare condition called methemoglobinemia or "blue baby syndrome." Symptoms include shortness of breath and blueness of the skin. In reported cases the symptoms usually did not appear until nitrate levels exceeded 20 mg/L, which are well above the current levels at RAF Lakenheath. "No cases of 'blue baby syndrome' have been reported in the United Kingdom since 1972," Gaboriault said. "Additionally, no cases have ever occurred at RAF Lakenheath or the other U.K. bases." The 48th Civil Engineer Squadron will continue to manage all existing water sources to keep the nitrate levels within acceptable limitations. The water being supplied to the base is safe for human consumption. Neither RAFs Mildenhall or Feltwell's water sources are affected by the increase in nitrate levels. To address any concerns or for more information, contact the pediatric clinic at 01638 528 010 or 01638 528 714.