Phenol poisoning due to contaminated drinking water

Accidental spillage of 37,900 1 of 100% phenol (carbolic acid) in July 1974 caused chemical contamination of wells in a rural area of southern Wisconsin. Human illness characterized by diarrhea, mouth sores, dark urine, and burning of the mouth was subsequently reported by seventeen individuals who consumed the contaminated water; their estimated intake of phenol was 10 to 240 mg/person/day. Clustering of the illnesses in time and place, as well as the similarity of these cases to previously documented cases of phenol poisoning, suggest that phenol in water caused the illness. Physical and laboratory examinations 6 months after the exposure revealed no residual abnormality in exposed persons. Water testing and geologic evaluations indicate that contamination of the underground water system may persist for many years.