E. coli outbreak in NSW Central Coast water supply

Residents of the Kariong area of the New South Wales Central Coast have been warned of the presence of Escherichia coli (E. coli) in the water supply. A Boil Water Alert has been issued to the area, with boiled or bottled water to be used for activities such as drinking, cooking, washing raw foods and cleaning teeth.

The E. coli bacteria were identified during routine monitoring of the water supply last week, which involves lab-testing samples of tap water. Megan Low from Gosford City Council told Sustainability Matters that the supply is usually monitored weekly, but the council is now going to conduct daily tests until the results are clear.

E. coli itself is generally not harmful, but its presence in drinking water is associated with sewage and animal wastes. The presence of these bacteria indicates that the water may be contaminated with organisms that may cause disease.

Low said the exact cause of the outbreak is still unknown. The council is investigating the matter further.

For updates and additional information on action to take during the Boil Water Alert period, residents are advised to refer to the Water and Sewer section of the council’s website.