Residents in Littlestown are being warned about elevated nitrate levels in the local water supply, with officials urging families not to give tap water to infants under six months old.
The Littlestown Borough Water Authority issued a drinking water advisory after testing revealed nitrate levels of 21.5 milligrams per liter, more than double the federal maximum contaminant level of 10 mg/L. The sample results were received on April 28.
The advisory is particularly critical for infants. Babies under six months who consume water with elevated nitrate levels risk developing a potentially life-threatening condition known as “blue-baby syndrome,” which limits the blood’s ability to carry oxygen. Symptoms can include shortness of breath and a bluish tint to the skin, and can worsen rapidly if not treated.
As a result, parents and caregivers are being instructed not to use tap water to prepare infant formula, juice, or food. Instead, bottled water or other low-nitrate sources should be used until further notice. Authorities also cautioned against boiling the water, noting that doing so does not remove nitrates and can actually increase their concentration.
For older children and adults, the water remains safe to drink under normal conditions. However, pregnant individuals or those with specific health concerns are advised to consult a medical professional.
The elevated nitrate levels were discovered during routine quarterly sampling required by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. In response, the affected well was immediately taken offline and removed from the water distribution system.
Officials said additional testing is underway to determine the source of the contamination and guide corrective actions. Nitrate contamination can originate from a variety of sources, including agricultural runoff, septic systems and natural processes. Water authorities noted that nitrate levels can fluctuate throughout the year.
The impacted well will remain out of service until further testing confirms that nitrate levels have returned to safe limits and appropriate corrective measures have been completed.
The water authority said it expects the issue to be resolved by May 15, though that timeline depends on ongoing test results and remediation efforts.
For more information, residents can contact the Littlestown Borough Water Authority at 717-359-5101.
Source: Littlestown Borough