Islanders With PFOS Concerns Offered Blood Tests

Islanders affected by PFOS near the airport are being invited for free blood tests.

The chemical was used in fire-fighting foams in the past. Because of that, certain water supplies were contaminated.

To meet the requirement for a test, islanders must have:

• Lived in the area for more than one year, or worked there for more than two, between 1991 and 2006.
• Regularly drank water from a borehole in the area
• Have at least one related symptom
• Be referred by their GP before 16 March and have it signed and dated by the GP and the resident.

Up to two GP appointments, as well as the blood test, is free of charge.

"We recognise that a number of local residents are concerned by this historic pollution incident and the Government has therefore decided to accommodate testing of those potentially affected by these chemicals.

Public Health have listened to the deep concern of many residents and are organising blood testing for concerned Islanders who meet the criteria, so they can be tested in the most reliable way." - Deputy Rowland Huelin, Assistant Chief Minister and Deputy of St Peter.

Traces of the pollutant were found in a borehole in St Peter in borehole in 2019 and tests were then carried out.

It found that water in boreholes and wells was still safe to drink.

"This has been a very long-standing matter and I am pleased that we are now able to offer expert PFOS testing to eligible Islanders who have been concerned about the issue for some time.

The testing supplier and laboratory we are using has an excellent reputation internationally, so Islanders who choose to be tested should be reassured that they will be receiving the best possible PFOS testing to guarantee accurate and reliable results.

Two GP appointments will be provided free of charge to ensure that those Islanders who are eligible for testing have had a discussion with their GP to determine whether testing is the right option for them." - Senator John Le Fondre, Chief Minister.