Boil order remains on Mercer Island despite fourth day of clean water tests

KCPQ-TV



MERCER ISLAND, Wash – A boil-order remains in place for all Mercer Island homes and businesses despite a fourth day in a row of clear water-sample tests.

The order was issued last Thursday after a test revealed possible E. Coli in at least one sample. This was the second boil order issues in a matter of weeks for the island community.

Authorities said elevated chlorination levels continue through the water mains as does the investigation into the source of the possible contamination.

Sunday a child on Mercer Island was reportedly sickened with E. Coli, though health officials said they could not conclusively link it to the water supply.

E.coli comes from a variety of sources including ground beef, unpasteurized milk and cheese, and produce,” said Dr. Meagan Kay, Medical Epidemiologist for Public Health – Seattle & King County. “We may never be able to definitively link this case to a particular source.”

Mercer Island Schools plan to continue a regular scheduled using special procedures to ensure food and water safety.

Roughly half of the island’s establishments have been allowed to resume business by following careful guidelines issued by health authorities.