High Levels Of E. Coli Found In NJ Town’s Water

November 1, 2010 9:01 AM

Scanning electron micrograph of Escherichia coli, grown in culture and adhered to a coverslip. AP Photo

For more trusted health

news and information,

visit CBS New York's

WINSLOW TOWNSHIP, N.J. (AP) – Most residents in a western New Jersey town are waiting to learn when they can again drink water without boiling it.

Winslow Township warned residents on Friday that it found high levels of E. coli bacteria in the water supply. In a notice posted on the town’s website, officials said that suggests the presence of human or animal waste.

Boiling kills bacteria that can cause diarrhea, cramps, nausea or headaches.

There’s no word on the cause.

Officials are isolating the contaminated water wells, which serve about 75 percent of Winslow’s 40,000 residents. Chlorine is being used to disinfect.

Winslow’s schools are closed Monday.

Officials are waiting for the state to say that the water is clean.