Burlington boil water order remains in place after E. coli found in water samples

BURLINGTON, Mass. — Burlington residents are stocking up on water after a boil water order was issued in town Thursday.

”Very frustrating,” said Justin Grannis who lives in town and had just bought water at the local supermarket.

Health officials in town say E. coli was found in at least three samples taken on Wednesday.

The results came back Thursday and the boil water order was issued immediately.

”No this is for drinking water purposes, all the other water we will use for washing hands and all we’re going to be boiling and what not,” said Grannis.

Burlington’s Health Director says to make sure to boil water.

”Just make sure the water is at a rolling boil for at least one minute prior to drinking,” said Susan Lumenello, who is Burlington’s director of public health.

That was tough for restaurants. Some closed and a local Dunkin Donuts could only serve bottled beverages.

Supermarkets are stocked up with plenty of water. And that’s a good thing because it may be a few days until the water is clean enough to drink as testing continues.

”We are doing that today and will do it again tomorrow. And depending on those results that’s how we will determine whether or not to lift the boil water order,” said John Sanchez, Burlington’s Department of Public Works director.

Until then health officials warn residents to be careful.

”Do not wash fruits or vegetables with tap water, use the boiled water or bottled water to do that,” said Lumenello.

Grannis plans on doing just that and he hopes these water worries end sooner than later.

”Yeah, I hope so I don’t want to keep doing this for weeks,” said Grannis.

E. coli can be serious for infants, young children and seniors. Symptoms can come on within hours or days and include: diarrhea, cramps, nausea, jaundice, headaches or fatigue.

If you experience any symptoms, health officials say to reach out to your doctor.

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