Carmiel Residents Told to Boil Drinking Water After Contamination Found

The Carmiel Municipality issued a directive to residents on Wednesday evening, instructing them to boil all drinking water due to the discovery of bacteria in the water supply during routine tests. The municipality stated that the presence of these bacteria indicates contamination that could lead to intestinal illnesses, diarrhea, infections, and pose a serious risk to vulnerable populations.

The Ministry of Health confirmed the findings and reiterated the boiling requirement for drinking, cooking, preparing food, making medicine, and brushing teeth. For bathing and sanitation purposes, the water can be used without boiling. Following the ministry's announcement, the Carmiel Municipality and the local water corporation mobilized to distribute water to educational institutions, disseminate public information, and safeguard public health.

The municipality explained that the water quality control process involves multiple laboratory tests, with results typically available within 24 hours of sampling. In the interim, the city's water reservoirs have been disconnected, and water authorities are working to establish a direct water supply to restore normalcy as quickly as possible.

Carmiel officials emphasized that while boiling is mandatory for consumption-related uses, there is no need to purchase bottled water, as a simple boiling process renders the tap water safe. They also clarified that home water filtration systems do not negate the need for boiling. The municipality will continue to supply water to educational facilities as needed and assured residents that there is no shortage of bottled water in local stores. A public hotline has been established for any questions or concerns.