The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) has notified the North Hunt Special Utility District water system that the drinking water being supplied to customers had exceeded the Maximum Containment Level (MCL) for nitrite.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has established the MCL for nitrite at one milligram per liter, based on a running annual average, and has determined that it is a health concern at levels above the MCL. Analysis of drinking water in communities served by the North Hunt SUD for nitrite indicates a compliance value in quarter three 2014 of two milligrams per liter, double the MCL.
Infants below the age of six months who drink water containing nitrite in excess of the MCL could become seriously ill and, if untreated, may die. Symptoms include shortness of breath and blue baby syndrome. If your child is under the age of six months, the child must be given an alternative water supply for consumption. Boiling the affected water is not an effective treatment for nitrite removal.
Most consumers do not need to use an alternative water supply. However, those concerned about health issues are encouraged to discuss facts with their physicians. At this time, the health effects to fetuses of pregnant women are unclear. Pregnant women may also choose to use an alternative source of water for drinking and cooking purposes.
The North Hunt SUD is working with the supplier regarding the nitrite level to bring ti down below the MCL, and then flushing the water lines, according to a release on their website.
For more information or questions, contact Stacey Nicholson (903-886-3458,) Jeremy Kinkade (903-366-6502,) or Justin Tipps (903-413-5879.)
