The Virginia Department of Health is reminding residents under a “Do Not Use Water” advisory and those who receive bulk water from the Orange County Water Distribution Center that large amounts of water should be boiled before using it for cooking or drinking.
To boil water safely, boil water for at least one minute and then allow it to cool before using.
Boil water instructions only apply to large quantities of water. Residents under a water do-not-use advisory should not attempt to treat tap water themselves. Boiling, freezing, filtering, adding chlorine or other disinfectants, or standing will not make water safe.
Following multiple reports of an unexplained odor in the drinking water, the Rapidan Services Authority (RSA) and the owners of the Wilderness Water Treatment Plant (WTP), in conjunction with the Virginia Department of Health, issued a warning on August 21 to err on the side of caution and avoid using the water.
No new sample results were available this morning. Additional analysis of test results received on August 23rd did not detect levels of contaminants that could cause health effects from short-term exposure.
So far, no link has been found between the odor in question and any illnesses. However, if you experience symptoms of gastroenteritis, such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, or a rash with or without a fever, you should see a doctor. Testing may require a blood or urine sample. Your local health department may also take a water sample from your home to get information about the illness and investigate further.
Because the contaminant causing the odor of concern has not been identified, the water avoidance advisory will remain in effect until the odor of concern is further reduced or eliminated. The swimming advisory also remains in effect.
RSA, VDH, and other responding state partners will continue to monitor the situation and provide additional updates on August 25. For more information, please visit the WTP Do Not Use incident page.
