After discovering that the sample contained E. coli, a city in Colorado advised some residents to boil it before using tap water.
On Thursday, Englewood City officials issued a boiling water consultation for specific parts of the city’s water supply system.
As part of a routine monthly water quality test, the city collected samples from 24 stations in the system on Wednesday and Thursday.
One of 24 samples was found to contain E. coli. The city warned that it can make people sick and is especially dangerous for people with weakened immune systems.
According to the city, the presence of E. coli indicates that the water may be contaminated with human or animal waste.
Residents should assume that they are in the affected area, until they confirm that they are not in the affected area, they can pass This site.
Those who follow the advice are advised not to use tap water without first boiling the tap water for three minutes and allowing it to cool down to kill possible bacteria. This includes water used for drinking, brushing teeth, washing dishes, preparing food, and making ice.
Alternatively, residents can use bottled water. Starting Thursday, bottled water will be distributed at the Englewood Civic Center in 1000 Englewood Parkway.
The city stated: “Although the specific reason why the E. coli sample was positive is not yet clear, bacterial contamination may occur in certain test locations due to the distribution system (pipeline) interruption, cross-connections, etc., backflow incidents or water treatment processes. failure.”
It said it is working with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and the three-county health bureau to “protect public health and address this situation.” This includes flushing water pipes, investigating the water distribution system, and testing water.
What are the symptoms of E. coli infection?
Most forms Escherichia coli Are harmless, but some release toxins that make people sick, such as Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC).
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the symptoms of E. coli infection may vary. Although some people may become mildly ill, it may be life-threatening to others. Usually, symptoms include severe stomach cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea that may contain blood. A fever of 101 degrees Fahrenheit or lower may also occur.
After a person ingests something contaminated with bacteria, it may take three to four days for symptoms to appear.
The CDC recommends that people contact their healthcare provider if they have diarrhea for more than three days, or if diarrhea and fever exceed 102 degrees Fahrenheit, bloody diarrhea or vomiting is so severe that they cannot control their fluids, and their urination is very severe. small.
About 5-10% of people are infected with toxin-producing Escherichia coli and will develop hemolytic uremic syndrome.House). This can cause kidney damage because toxins from the intestine enter the blood.
Young children, people with weakened immune systems, and the elderly are most susceptible to E. coli.
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