E. coli found in Republic’s water

Tests of the municipal water system in Republic have detected E. coli bacteria, prompting a boil advisory for the community’s 1,400 people. The state Department of Health is working with the Northeastern Washington town to to find the source of contamination. The system will be disinfected. Meanwhile residents have been asked to use boiled water or buy bottled water for drinking, brushing teeth, dishwashing, preparing food and ice-making. Water should be briskly boiled for one minute and allowed to cool before using. The boil advisory is likely to remain in effect until early next week.