Saratoga Springs orders residents to boil water to avoid illness

SARATOGA SPRINGS — A recent outbreak of a flu-like sickness has led Saratoga Springs to order businesses, residents and schools to boil their water.

Since last week, at least 12 cases of people exhibiting flu-like symptoms, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, cramping and fever, have been reported around a neighborhood in Saratoga Springs. As a result, officials with the Utah County Health Department and city decided to instigate a boil order.

Officials say boiling the drinking water of all users of the culinary water system located north of 400 South in Saratoga Springs for at least one minute could help reduce the risk of picking up the contaminant believed to cause the stomach or intestinal illness. An alternative is to buy bottled water or use liquid household bleach that is free of additives and scents to disinfect water.

Officials are hopeful the order will be in effect for just 24 hours, but they warned residents Thursday that it could last up to 72 hours.

City Manager Ken Leetham said the bacteria causing the illness is campylobacter, which, if left untreated, can cause intestinal problems. It can be treated with antibiotics.

The order includes the following subdivisions: Harvest Hills, Aspen Hills, Sunrise Meadows, Dalmore Meadows, Summer Village, Sunset Haven, Sierra Estates, Riverbend, The Cove at Jordan River, The Gables, Sergeant Court, Daybreak at Harvest Hills and Hillcrest Condominiums.

For additional information, see boiling instructions being delivered door-to-door or contact local public works officials at 801-766-9793.

— Lana Groves