People living in Erie, Illinois should not give tap water to babies under six months old. This week, the Village of Erie released water sample results that show high levels of nitrate in the water, which is dangerous to infants.
The alert says infants below six months who drink water with high nitrate levels can become ill and, if untreated, die. Symptoms include shortness of breath and blueness of a baby's skin.
High nitrate levels can be caused by multiple sources, including natural, industrial, or agricultural conditions. Erie will release another statement once the nitrate levels are normal again.
Bottled water will be available for pregnant women and infants upon request.