by Ben Beagle, originally posted on July 9, 2016

The Town of Leicester has issued a boil water notice after E. coli bacteria was found in drinking water.

The presence of E.coli indicated that the water may be contaminated with human or animal waste, the Livingston County Department of Health said in the advisory.

The advisory applies to residents on Caledonia Road in the hamlet of Cuylerville, beginning at house number 4672, and extends north to include the Town of York.

E. coli bacteria were found July 7.

Water sampling is being performed to identify the extent of potential E. coli bacteria. Results are expected to be known within about 24 hours at which time the notice could either be lifted or additional measures taken.

Residents in the affected area will need to boil water until further notice. This includes waters used or drinking, making ice, washing dishes, brushing teeth and preparing food. Residents should bring tap water to a rolling boil for 1 minute and cool before use.

Bottled water may also be an option in place of using tap water. Bottled water would not need to be boiled before use.

The state Department of Health considers any confirmed E. coli in a water sample as a public health hazard and violation of drinking water standards.

E. coli can cause diarrhea, cramps, nausea and headaches, among other symptoms.

Such symptoms may pose a special health risk for infants, some elderly and people with severely compromised immune systems. The symptoms are not just caused by harmful microbes in drinking water. People experiencing these symptoms, of if the symptoms persist, should seek medical advice.