A precautionary advice for drinking water (water boil alert) was issued today to Areyonga community following the detection of the e-coli bacteria in the community's water supply.
The Department of Health and Community Services today confirmed that precautionary measures were being taken to ensure that the water supply was safe to drink again as quickly as possible.
Director of Environmental Health, Xavier Schobben said in the meantime residents and visitors to Areyonga should drink bottled water or boil drinking water and allow to cool prior to consumption.
"During the regular testing of the water supply the presence of E-coli was identified in the range of 2 - 10 organism per 100 millilitres of water which is an indicator of faecal contamination and potential other harmful bacteria that can cause diarrhoea.
"Work is now underway by Power Water Corporation to monitor the chlorine in the system and ensure maximum disinfection occurs to kill any bacteria present.
"The water will be tested again later tomorrow to ensure it is safe to drink, at which point the water boil alert will be lifted," Mr Schobben said.
Residents who experience diarrhoea symptoms should seek medical advice from the health clinic or other health service.
Anyone who has concerns can contact DHCS Environmental Health hotline during business hours on toll free 1800 095 646.
Contact: Sonia Peters 0401 119 550
Release date: 6 Feburary 2008
