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Thousands of central Auckland residents have been warned to boil their tap water after an E. coli result in a routine water sample.
Watercare issued a boil water notice this evening for Hillsborough, Mt Roskill, Royal Oak and Three Kings.
While all other results from the sample were within normalranges, the notice is in place while further testing is carried out.
“We understand that this notice will have an impact on households and businesses across the area but it’s important that we act carefully in the interest of public health,“ Watercare said.
Watercare has issued a boil water notice this evening for Hillsborough, Mt Roskill, Royal Oak and Three Kings. Image / Watercare
Watercare has issued a boil water notice this evening for Hillsborough, Mt Roskill, Royal Oak and Three Kings. Image / Watercare
What do people in the affected areas need to do?
Residents in affected areas were advised to boil tap water before drinking it or using it for food preparation.
Boiled or bottled water should also be used for cleaning teeth, making ice, washing dishes and preparing food until further notice.
Watercare said boiling water in an electric kettle once is enough to kill bacteria and other organisms, after which the water can be cooled and used normally.
Where to get safe water
Two public water tankers have been set up to help locals who cannot boil water.
The tankers are at 113 Duke Street, Big King Reserve and Hillsborough Park Carpark, Carlton Street.
A third has been set up specifically to support a retirement village.
The stations will remain open tonight and will continue operating until the issue is resolved. People should bring clean containers to collect water.
Watercare said it expects to provide an update by midday tomorrow.
What is E. coli?
E. coli is a group of bacteria commonly found in the intestines of people and animals. Most types are harmless, but some can cause illness.
E. coli can spread through contaminated food, including undercooked meat and raw milk, contaminated water, contact with people who are sick, and contact with farm animals, animal faeces, and soil.
It can also spread easily from person to person if infected people do not wash their hands properly.
3D illustration showing Escherichia coli, E. coli, colonizing parts of the intestine. Getty Images
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms are often mild, but they can be more serious in young children, older people, and people with weakened immune systems.
They can include stomach cramps, diarrhoea - sometimes bloody, and nausea and vomiting.
Most people get better within five to seven days. Rest and drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
You should see a healthcare provider if you have bloody diarrhoea, a fever, or symptoms that have not gone away after seven days. You should also seek medical advice if you are very unwell or have a weakened immune system.
Take your child to a healthcare provider if they are not drinking, are passing less urine than usual, have a dry mouth or sunken eyes, or seem drowsy.
