DNR Warns of High Nitrite in Water District

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By Aaron Hepker

Story Created: Aug 26, 2010 at 3:55 PM CST

Story Updated: Aug 26, 2010 at 3:55 PM CST

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is warning residents in part of a central Iowa rural water district not to give water from the system to infants, because of high nitrite levels.

The warning is for part of the Xenia Rural Water District north and west of Des Moines.

Water samples taken Wednesday indicated a nitrite level slightly higher than safe.

Residents in the warning area should not give the water to infants younger than 6 months. That includes juice or formula mixed with water from the tap.

The DNR says infants who drink water containing high nitrite could because seriously ill and, if untreated, may die. Symptoms include shortness of breath and "blue baby syndrome," indicated by blue skin.

Water with high nitrite cannot be treated by boiling.

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