E.Coli in Alexandria, LA water supply... whole city under boil order

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A test has shown the presence of E.coli bacteria in the City of Alexandria water system.

Escherichia coli bacteria were found in the water supply on 6/12/18 and 6/13/18. Samples taken at 5212 Rue Verdun and 78A Versailles initially tested positive for Total Coliforms and E. coli. Follow-up sampling for 78A Versailles site tested negative but follow-up samples for 5212 Rue Verdun tested positive for E.coli. These bacteria can make you sick, and are a particular concern for people with weakened immune systems.

Bacterial contamination can occur when increased run-off enters the drinking water source (for example, following heavy rains). It can also happen due to a break in the distribution system (pipes) or a failure in the water treatment process.

There is no readily identifiable cause for apparent contamination. There have been no breaks or loss of pressure in the distribution system (pipes), residual chlorine disinfection levels are well above the EPA required minimums, and there has been no failure in the water treatment process.

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