CHAPPELL -- Chappell officials issued a boil water order following a test that found E. coli bacteria.

According to a December 5 statement published by the Village of Chappell, E. coli was found during the month of December 2024, "indicating the need to look for potential problems in water treatment or distribution."

"When this occurs, we are required to conduct an assessment to identify problems and to correct any problems that were found during these assessments," the statement says.

The presence of E.coli bacteria indicates water may be contaminated with human or animal waste. Human pathogens in waste can cause short term effects including diarrhea, cramps, nausea and headaches. Infected by the pathogens may result in greater health risks for infants, young children, elderly ad people with compromised immune systems. 

Residents are encouraged to not consume tap water without boiling it first. Bring water to a boil for one minute, let it cool before using it. Boiled or bottled water is encouraged for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes and food preparation until further notice. Boiling water kills bacteria and other organisms.

Bacterial contamination can occur when increased run-off enters the drinking water source. It can also happen due to a break in the distribution systems (pipes) or a failure in the water treatment process. The water system is continuing to be tested and officials are working to identify the source. 

General guidelines on ways to lessen the risk of infection by microbes are available from EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791 or epa.gov/safewater.