Temporary fix completed for Sanikiluaq's high sodium water problem

A temporary solution for the high sodium levels in Sanikiluaq's water supply should be complete by the end of today.

More than a month ago,tests showed high levels of sodium in the water supply and Nunavut's health departmentwarned against drinking it. Bottled water was flown into the community.

Residents were told drinking water with high sodiumlevels could causeadverse effects for people with high blood pressure or those on sodium-reduced diets. Infants, children and the elderly were also at higher risk.

The territorial government flewin 233 reverse osmosis filters to be installed in homes in the community as a temporary solution to the problem. That work started earlier this month and the final units should be in place by the end of the day.

Officials say there will be a report early next week outlining current conditions and recommendations for long-term solutions.