Tap water restricted at new B.C. hospital after suspect sample detected

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - Health officials in northeastern B.C., are taking no chances and have issued a boil water advisory for a brand new hospital and seniors' residential care facility in Fort St. John.

The Fort St. John Hospital and Peace Villa opened just seven weeks ago, but Northern Health says a recent water sample revealed high particulate levels from a source within the complex.

Tests have not confirmed any contamination, but "do not drink" notices have been posted at water fountains and taps throughout the $302-million facility.

Northern Health says it is working with the B.C. Centre for Disease Control to determine next steps, but in the meantime, surgical staff are scrubbing with regular disinfectant and are required to rinse with boiled water.

Bottled water is being distributed to patients, residents and staff until the source of the questionable sample is pinpointed.

Officials say daily operations of the hospital and care centre are not affected and the boil water advisory is limited to the complex and does not extend to the city of Fort St. John. (MooseFM)