SHELDAHL – Water samples from the city of Sheldahl in Polk County are still testing high for nitrites, keeping a bottled water advisory in effect for infants under six months old.
Tap water is safe for adults and children older than six months. However, do not give tap water to infants under six months, or use it when mixing formula, juice or other foods. Use bottled water or another source of drinking water for infants as they cannot process nitrites in the same way adults can.
Do not boil the water, as boiling increases nitrite concentrations.
Pregnant women and those with specific health concerns may want to consult with their doctors about drinking tap water.
The nitrite concentration from a Nov. 4, 2015, sample was 2.07 milligrams of nitrite per liter of water sampled, slightly more than twice the maximum contaminant level of 1.0 mg/L allowed. Samples collected Nov. 16 after the city flushed the water system show concentrations of 1.70 mg/L.
The city is working with DNR staff to identify the source of the problem and to correct it. High levels of naturally occurring ammonia in the ground water are a likely source of the problem.
The bottled water advisory remains in effect until testing shows water samples are below the maximum contaminant level.