COMMUNITIES HONORED FOR ADEQUATE FLUORIDE IN WATER

ANNA, Ill. -- The Anna-Jonesboro Water System is one of 92 Illinois water systems that have been recognized for maintaining required levels of fluoride during the past year in drinking water.

"When the fluoride levels in public water supplies meet state standards, the citizens of these communities benefit through improved oral health," said Dr. John R. Lumpkin, state health director.

Also receiving top recognition were Brookport in Massac County and Marion in Williamson County.

Each year the Illinois Department of Public Health and the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency recognize communities that continually meet state fluoride standards.

Another 77 communities received honorable mention for meeting fluoride standards 11 of 12 months during 1992. Included on that list were Cairo and Carbondale.

There are 1,931 public water supply systems in Illinois. In many communities, the fluoride levels fluctuate and do not always meet the required standards. Communities are required to send water samples to a certified lab on a monthly basis for testing.