Unofficial test results reveals potential E.coli contamination
Wilmot Union High School reported a potential case of E.coli contamination of its water supply after unofficial testing Friday.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, E.coli is bacteria that normally lives within the intestines of people and animals, and are mostly harmless, and can be a part of a healthy intestinal tract.
However, some can be pathogenic, which could cause illness, including diarrhea or illness outside the intestinal tract.
The types of E.coli that cause diarrhea can be transmitted through contaminated water or food, or through contact with animals of persons.
The CDC notes water contamination is commonly found on a small number of cattle farms, where the bacteria can live in the intestine of healthy cattle.
“It may be found in water sources, such as private wells, that have been contaminated with feces from infected humans or animals. Waste can enter the water through different ways, including sewage overflows, sewage systems that are not working properly, polluted storm water runoff, and agricultural runoff,” according to the CDC fact sheet.
Pending official results from the Kenosha County Health Department, which will be conducted Monday, the school is enforcing precautions to maintain the health of students and staff.
The school will turn off all drinking fountains, signs will be posted to inform people to not drink the water.
As an alternative, the school plans to provide bottled water for students and staff Monday.
The school posted on social media Friday night that results will take 24 hours.
For further updates, mykenoshacounty.com will keep you informed.