Water

Water supplies varied according to the nature of the country and the location of the units. Wells, rivers, streams, and town water supplies were all used. The large proportion of magnesia in the water had a laxative effect, and unless the water was boiled and allowed to settle before being again boiled for tea, it tended to retain the chlorine taste. With the amount of unburied excreta on the surface of the ground, units were advised to exercise great care in the use of wells, most of which depended upon surface drainage. The principle was laid down that all water in Italy should be regarded as contaminated and treated accordingly. Divisional water points were established when practicable, one being established by 4 Field Hygiene Section on the banks of the Sangro River, filtration being necessary.