E.coli bacteria detected in Grand Canyon National Park water supply

E.coli bacteria have been detected in the water supply of Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, according to an advisory issued by the National Park Service (NPS).

Friday’s announcement warned visitors to Phantom Ranch, a lodge deep in the south end of Arizona’s Grand Canyon, to boil water before using it.

“These bacteria can make you sick and are of particular concern for people with weakened immune systems,” the NPS said.

“Bacterial contamination can occur when increased runoff enters the drinking water source (for example, following heavy rains),” it also says.

“It can also happen due to a break in the distribution system (pipes) or a failure in the water treatment process.”

All water should be boiled for one minute per 1,000 feet of altitude to kill bacteria before using it for drinking, brushing teeth, washing dishes, making ice cream or cooking, the NPS advised.

Bottled water can also be used as an alternative.

At this time, no other areas outside of Phantom Ranch have been found to be infected with E.coli.

What is E.coli?

E.coli — officially known as Escherichia coli — is a type of bacteria found in the environment, food, and the intestines of people and animals, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Some strains can make people sick, with symptoms including but not limited to severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), vomiting, respiratory illnesses, urinary tract infections, and pneumonia .

Symptoms usually start three to four days after eating or drinking something containing E.coli, but can start as soon as a day or up to 10 days later.

While most people recover on their own within five to seven days, some people have serious illnesses that require medical attention.

The CDC recommends seeing a health care provider for “diarrhea that lasts longer than three days, or diarrhea that is accompanied by a fever over 102˚F, bloody diarrhea, or vomiting so profuse that you can’t keep the stomach down.” liquids and that you evacuate very little. urine.”

Although rare, some people with E. coli can develop hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which can lead to kidney failure or other life-threatening complications, according to the CDC.

Symptoms of HUS include extreme fatigue, decreased urination, and loss of color in the face and lower eyelids.

The National Park Service said in its announcement that it was taking steps to control the situation, including making “adjustments to the control system” and restarting the chlorination process.

“We are increasing sampling for coliform bacteria to determine the source of contamination,” the statement said.

“We will let you know when the tests show no bacteria and you no longer need to boil your water.”

People are encouraged to share the advisory with anyone in the area who may be exposed to this water.

For guidance on reducing the risk of infection from germs, people can call the EPA’s Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791.