E. coli/fecal coliform found in the water distribution system
The City of Burlington has implemented a boil water notice due to E. Coli/fecal coliform bacteria
found at a specific location in the city of Burlington water system.
E. coli/fecal coliform bacteria can cause illness for individuals with weakened immune systems.
Symptoms of E. coli infection may vary, but could include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and
vomiting.
City of Burlington has advised that residents should boil their drinking water until further notice.
Additionally, the State of North Carolina advises impacted residents to boil all water used for
human consumption (including drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes and food
preparation) or use bottled water. Residents should boil their water for at least one minute; this
should help kill any disease-causing organisms that are potentially present in the water.
With a positive E.coli, those businesses permitted by the Health Department, restaurants, lodging
and tattoo parlors, and are customers of the city of Burlington must suspend operations until the
boil water notice is lifted and post event procedures are followed.
For general guidelines on how to lessen the risk of infection contact the EPA Safe Drinking Water
Hotline at 1-800-426-479. Any questions or concerns regarding food and lodging facilities can be
addressed by calling 336-290-0653. Alamance County Environmental Health has a hotline
available to assist.
City of Burlington residents can contact the City of Burlington’s Customer Service Line at 336-
222-5100 or monitor the City’s website at www.BurlingtonNC.gov/Water.
