PEARL, Miss. (WJTV) – The City of Pearl has been placed under a State Imposed boil water alert after E. coli was found in the city’s drinking water.

According to the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH), water sampling showed the presence of the bacteria. The systemwide notice was issued on Thursday, June 27.

Health officials strongly recommend that all water be boiled for one minute before it is consumed. This precaution will last at least two full days, and water system officials will be immediately notified when the boil water alert is lifted.

“All safety protocols are being taken by the city to resolve any issues and are currently taking secondary samples so that the boil water notices may be lifted by the department of health as quickly as possible. The City’s first priority is the safety of all its citizens and visitors. We take great pride in what we do and are working diligently to resolve any issues,” said Pearl Mayor Jake Windham

According to MSDH, fecal coliforms and E. coli are bacteria whose presence indicates that the water may be contaminated with human or animal wastes. Microbes in these wastes can cause short-term effects such as diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches or other symptoms. They may pose a special health risk for infants, young children and people with severely compromised immune systems.