Dear Matzav Inbox,
With the Yomim Noraim approaching, this is a difficult topic to raise. However, after discussing the matter with a number of bnei Torah who strongly felt that it needs to be brought to the community’s attention, I am writing regarding an important issue of public safety.
As mikvaos experience the tremendous pre-Yom Tov rush, with exceptionally large crowds using them each day in the period leading up to Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, a serious question needs to be asked: Are the filtration and sanitation systems in our mikvaos equipped to handle such a dramatic increase in usage, and are adequate measures being taken to minimize potential health risks?
With this heavy traffic come legitimate hygiene concerns, particularly the risk of preventable skin and bacterial infections, including folliculitis and cellulitis, which can be associated with inadequately sanitized water. I personally contracted an infection after using a local mikvah, and I have since spoken with several others who experienced similar problems. This has led me to believe that relying exclusively on internal monitoring may not be sufficient. For vulnerable individuals, including the elderly and those with compromised immune systems, certain infections can become serious and may even require hospitalization.
Our community places enormous importance on independent standards and reliable hashgachah when it comes to food establishments. Perhaps a similar model should be considered for this vital area of communal infrastructure. A dedicated vaad could independently oversee water safety in mikvaos, working with qualified professionals to conduct appropriate testing and ensure that sanitation and filtration systems are functioning properly, particularly during periods of exceptionally heavy use.
Such oversight would protect the health of the community while fully respecting all halachic requirements. Concerns about chemical maintenance, filtration and the absence of transparent, independent testing should be addressed before they result in preventable illness. In fact, I am already aware of individuals who are sufficiently concerned about the health risks associated with heavily used mikvaos that they choose to go to the ocean instead.
My intention is certainly not to disparage our mikvaos or those who work hard to maintain them. On the contrary, precisely because mikvaos are such an essential part of Jewish life, their safety should be treated with the seriousness it deserves. Sakanta chamira me’isura, and this is an issue that warrants attention.
Thank you for bringing attention to this important matter of communal safety.
E. G.
New Jersey
To submit a letter to appear on Matzav.com, email [email protected]
DON’T MISS OUT! Join the Matzav Status by CLICKING HERE. Join the Matzav WhatsApp Groups by CLICKING HERE.
The opinions expressed in letters on Matzav.com do not necessarily reflect the stance of the Matzav Media Network.
