What is E. coli bacteria?

E. coli is a sub-group of the fecal coliform bacteria group. There are many strains of E. coli, most of which are harmless, but some strains can cause illness. E. coli outbreaks receive much media coverage. Most outbreaks have been related to food contamination (not water) caused by a specific strain of E. coli known as E. coli O157:H7.


When a drinking water sample is reported as "E. coli positive," it does not mean that this specific strain is present and in fact, it is probably not present. However, it does indicate recent fecal contamination. Boiling or treating contaminated drinking water with a disinfectant destroys all forms of E. coli, including O157:H7.

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1. Why have I been notified?
2. Why must I boil my water?
3. How long will the Boil Order remain in effect?
4. How can I make my water safe?
5. Can I use bottled water?
6. During a Boil Order, what can I use my tap water for?
7. Can I wash my hands using tap water?
8. Can my family take showers or baths using tap water?
9. Can I wash dishes using tap water?
10. Can I use my coffee maker, ice machine, water or soda dispenser?
11. Can I give my pets tap water?
12. Who can be affected?
13. What are the symptoms of water-borne illness?
14. What if I drank water already?
15. What is E. coli bacteria?