Officials from Kankakee, Manteno, University Park advised of recent water testing showing nitrate levels above the federal drinking water standard.

Aqua Illinois water customers were being provided with bottled water over the weekend after nitrate levels raised a red flag. Kankakee, Manteno and University Park officials advised parents of infants to avoid tap water after recent test results showed an abnormally high level of nitrate.

The higher concentrations, while not posing a risk to adults and children over six months of age, present a serious health risk to infants under six months old. Officials also stress that boiling water does not reduce nitrate levels, and can in fact increase them. Parents are also advised to not use tap water to mix infant formula.

According to officials, the contamination likely originates from recent heavy rainfall that led to fertilizer runoff in the Kankakee River, impacting nearby areas.

If consumed, infants under six months of age are at risk for developing blue baby syndrome, a potentially fatal condition caused by nitrate-contaminated water.

Officials advise that bottled water be used for infant consumption until further notice.

Bottled water was being distributed (Sunday) in Kankakee, Manteno and University Park.

94.1 WGFA