TasWater, the utility provider for Greater Hobart, has confirmed that its water treatment processes effectively remove any risk of antibiotics entering the public water supply. This announcement follows the use of the antibiotic oxytetracycline by Huon Aquaculture in response to a disease outbreak at a hatchery on the River Derwent. The Director of Public Health has assessed the situation and determined that there are no health risks associated with the water supply.

Despite the reassurances from TasWater, there were concerns regarding public awareness as the salmon company did not initially inform residents about the antibiotic treatment until it had been administered as a precautionary measure. The situation raises important questions about communication and the management of public health information, particularly in relation to environmental practices and the aquaculture industry.

In response to the incident, the Environment Protection Authority announced it would implement new regulatory requirements to ensure that authorities are promptly notified of any antibiotic treatments in freshwater environments. This measure aims to enhance transparency and safeguard public health, highlighting the need for stringent oversight in the use of pharmaceuticals in aquaculture.