San Juan River E. coli levels falling, but state and county keep warnings in place

E. coli levels in the San Juan River are going down after the October flooding, but the health advisory for the river and nearby floodwaters is still in effect, the San Juan County Public Health Department and the Utah Division of Water Quality said Friday. ^[1]

The local drinking water system is separate from the river, and tap water is safe to drink, the agencies said. ^[1]

People should avoid all recreation in the river and in any standing floodwater, and should not use that water for drinking, cooking, washing or other household needs. Children, pets and livestock should be kept away from the river and flooded areas. ^[1]

Swallowing the water can cause diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, fever and rash, the agencies said. Pregnant women, young children and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk. Anyone who gets sick after contact with untreated surface water can call the Utah Poison Control Center at (800) 222-1222 or a doctor. ^[1]

Because the germs can survive in wet places for weeks, people helping with flood cleanup should wear gloves, mouth coverings and eye protection and make sure their tetanus shots are current, the agencies said. The San Juan County Health Department takes questions at 435-587-3838, weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ^[1]

Tests in Bluff earlier in the week had found E. coli far above normal. Nearly all samples taken Oct. 26 measured 2,400 to 2,500 MPN per 100 mL, compared with a historical average of about 98, the town said at the time. ^[2] The Oct. 30 update did not give new readings. ^[1]