Reducing Exposure to Nontuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM)

I agree that most distilled water I probably low risk, if bottled under sterile conditions. I use .2 micron filtered water because a filter that fine traps any mycobacteria.

I personally think there is a difference between steam from boiling water, which is highly unlikely to be contaminated, and "steam" from a shower, which is droplets water that is not hot enough to kill NTM. But I don't have any science to prove it.

I just think we get "way in the weeds" sometimes trying to avoid EVERY exposure. I try to concentrate on reducing big risks (eg indoor pools and hot tubs) and ignoring the small ones (getting my hair washed at the salon or opening the dishwasher that has run at 180⁰ for an hour.) I have been MAC free for 5 years and counting after almost 2 years of antibiotics.

Everyone is different and I respect that. My risk tolerance is probably higher than average in this group.

Sue regarding your water filter. I think once you posted you have well water source. So what is and where is the 0.2 filter you use. I researched all water filters, reverse osmosis etc and I am so confused what to use so I still boil water, have the water heater set to 140 degrees and hope it’s enough for everyday kitchen use. Thank you

My filter is in my kitchen water feed. It is a dual filter - first it goes through .9 micron, then through .2 micron. Sorry I cannot give a brand name - my husband is totally in charge of it. We have city water from a deep well in one location, my second has just changed to the same. Both kitchens have the same filter, plus the water heater at 135F or a bit higher in each. We do not drink or cook with water from the other taps in our house. I use the filtered water to make ice.

So far (over 6 years) this has been safe for me.

Sue regarding your water filter. I think once you posted you have well water source. So what is and where is the 0.2 filter you use. I researched all water filters, reverse osmosis etc and I am so confused what to use so I still boil water, have the water heater set to 140 degrees and hope it’s enough for everyday kitchen use. Thank you