CARSON CITY – A Boil Water Order was issued today for Gold Country Estates (population 950) in Grass Valley. The community affected includes Grass Valley Elementary school.

A routine sample taken Nov. 24, 2009, showed a presence of total coliform bacteria. This finding required that a retest be taken following the Thanksgiving holiday Nov. 30. The results of this retesting, received today, showed a presence of E. coli bacteria. All efforts were taken to ensure drinking water at the school was restricted from use by children after it was confirmed by the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP) that water in the system may be contaminated with E. coli.

State personnel have been in contact with the owner/operator of the Gold Country Estate’s system since receiving notification at noon today. NDEP issued a precautionary Boil Water Order immediately. All drinking water at the school was immediately restricted from use and home owners in the affected community were notified to boil water for consumption.

Homes or businesses served by the Gold Country Estates water system are required to boil water before use or use bottled water until further notice. To kill bacteria properly, bring all water to a boil, let it boil for one minute and cool before using. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, and food preparation.

The presence of E. coli bacteria indicates that the water may be contaminated with human or animal wastes, which can cause diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches, or other symptoms. Exposure may pose a special health risk for infants, young children, and people with severely compromised immune systems. These symptoms are not caused only by organisms in drinking water. Those who experience any of these symptoms may want to seek medical advice. People at increased risk should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers.

Gold Country Estates water system operators will be required to assess, disinfect, flush and conduct additional sampling of the system until it is determined that the system is clear of contamination. The Boil Water Order will remain in place until further notice.