Health Department: Evidence of E.coli bacteria found in one hydration station at Erin Hills golf course

On Thursday, June 15, 2017, the Washington Ozaukee Health Department identified E. coli bacteria in a drinking water sample collected from one hydration station connected to a well near hole number 12 at the Erin Hills golf course in Hartford, Wisconsin.

There has been no evidence of other water lines or hydration stations being affected and no incidence of illness reported. Erin Hills is hosting the 2017 U.S. Open Championship June 12-18th.

The water line to the affected hydration station on hole number 12 was shut off Thursday morning, June 15, 2017. However, some visitors may have consumed water from the contaminated hydration station between Tuesday afternoon and Thursday morning.

The championship organizers provided complimentary bottled water at the impacted hydration station for attendees throughout the day while waiting for the preliminary results to be confirmed. Out of an abundance of caution, bottled water will be provided at all hydration stations at the event beginning tomorrow, Friday, June 16th. This complimentary bottled water supply will continue to be available for the duration of the championship.

E. coli and coliform bacteria can be found in the soil and can enter a water supply through breaks and cracks in underground pipes. People who consume water containing E. coli bacteria may become ill with symptoms of gastrointestinal illness such as diarrhea, vomiting, fever, nausea, and abdominal cramps.

People who may have consumed contaminated water and experience any symptoms of gastrointestinal illness such as diarrhea, vomiting, fever, nausea and abdominal cramps are urged to visit their health care, provider.

The USGA released the following statement:

The Washington Ozaukee Public Health Department notified the USGA that it identified evidence of E. coli bacteria from a sample from one hydration station near the 12th hole at Erin Hills golf course, site of the U.S. Open Championship. The water line to the hydration station was disconnected immediately, and bottled water was provided to guests while we waited for the preliminary results to be confirmed by the Public Health Department. The safety and security of our guests is of paramount importance to the USGA. Out of an abundance of caution, we will offer all guests complimentary bottled water at all four hydration stations throughout the duration of the championship.

Those with questions should call 262-335-4462.

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