Boil Notice Issued in Otake and Mill Camp After E. Coli Found
The Hawaii Department of Health has issued a boil water advisory for residents in Otake and Mill Camp. The action follows detection of E. coli bacteria in the Waialua Sugar Pump 2 water system.
About 500 people are served by the affected system, which is owned by the Waialua Water Association. Officials say samples taken on April 16 showed contamination in both source wells and the distribution network.
What residents should do now
Do not drink unboiled tap water. Bring water to a rolling boil, maintain the boil for three minutes, and let it cool before use.
Bottled water or an approved alternate source is also acceptable. Use boiled or bottled water for drinking, ice, tooth brushing, dishwashing, and food preparation until authorities lift the advisory.
Health risks and symptoms
E. coli presence indicates possible contamination from human or animal waste. Such contamination can harbor pathogens that cause illness.
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps
- Nausea
- Headache
Infants, young children, older adults, and immunocompromised people face higher risks. Seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.
Cause and regulatory status
State officials note contamination can follow heavy runoff, distribution breaks, or treatment failures. Recent Kona low storms prompted more frequent testing of the supply.
Detection of E. coli at source wells is treated as a Tier 1 violation under the U.S. EPA Ground Water Rule. That designation triggers urgent corrective steps.
Actions underway and timeline
The water system is collaborating with state agencies on remedial measures. Plans include a temporary interconnection and interim disinfection of source water.
The state is helping secure alternate water supplies for residents. Some restoration may be possible within several weeks using temporary connections.
Fully resolving source well contamination could take several months. Officials will provide a firm timeline when available.
Residents seeking updates or assistance can contact David Robichaux at (808) 368-5352. Filmogaz.com will report further developments on the boil notice for Otake and Mill Camp after E. coli found in the system.
