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1. Should I have my blood tested for PFAS?

A blood test for PFAS can tell you how much of each PFAS measured is in your blood. It can allow you to compare your PFAS levels to national norms or with other communities. Blood testing also helps us measure PFAS exposure for community studies on health outcomes.

At this time, we don't know what the PFAS levels in blood mean in terms of individual health risk. The test results can't be used to diagnose current health problems, predict future health problems, or indicate a specific course of treatment for the patient.

If you have specific health concerns, please consult with your health care provider.

2. Should I still breastfeed my baby if there are PFAS in my tap water?

If PFAS are above health advisory levels in your drinking water, we recommend that you switch to an alternative source of drinking water and continue to breastfeed your baby. Given the scientific understanding at this time, the benefits of breastfeeding outweigh any potential risks of PFAS exposure through breast milk. Talk to your health care provider if you have concerns about PFAS and breastfeeding. 

Learn more about breastfeeding and PFAS.

3. Can I boil my water to get rid of PFAS?

No, you cannot boil PFAS out of water.

4. Can I water my plants and garden with PFAS-contaminated water and eat that produce?

Yes, based on limited information and PFAS water levels found in Washington, we don't expect produce to be a significant source of PFAS exposure. The health benefits of gardening may outweigh any health risks. 

It is possible for some PFAS from contaminated soil or irrigation water to reach edible parts of plants. However, a garden study by the Minnesota Department of Health showed that for PFAS with health-based guidelines, levels did not exceed health-based guidelines for exposure. Research on this question is emerging. If you are concerned, here are some ways to minimize exposure:

• PFAS may be in soil particles. Wash or scrub all dirt off produce before eating to avoid consuming soil.
• Peel and wash root vegetables before eating.
• Wear garden gloves when working in the garden, and wash hands with soap and water after.
• Add clean compost to your garden soil. Increasing the organic content of your garden soil can reduce the amount of PFAS your plants pick up from the soil.
• Use rainwater or install a filter to remove PFAS from garden irrigation water.

There are no current standards for allowable PFAS in commercial produce. If you raise and sell crops, contact the Washington State Department of Agriculture for their most updated guidance.