The Town of Hampstead wishes to inform residents that no new final test results have yet been received regarding the ongoing analysis of the drinking water system.<\/p>\n
Analyses conducted following the sample collected on May 21, 2026, identified a high number of atypical colonies. According to the laboratory, this type of result can sometimes interfere with the proper identification of bacteria normally targeted during testing, including total coliforms and E. coli, particularly when bacterial growth becomes too abundant on the sample media.<\/p>\n
At this time, no confirmed presence of E. coli has been reported and no illnesses related to the situation have been identified. Furthermore, according to scientific references and guidelines from Quebec\u2019s environmental analysis authority, the vast majority of atypical colonies are generally considered non-pathogenic and do not typically represent a direct health risk.<\/p>\n
As a precautionary measure and in accordance with public health protocols, the preventive boil water advisory nevertheless remains in effect until the new series of tests currently under incubation has been fully analyzed and confirmed.<\/p>\n
Residents must therefore continue boiling tap water for at least one minute before consumption or use bottled water.<\/p>\n
Bottled water remains available at the Community Centre for residents who are unable to boil water at home.<\/strong> A new delivery is expected today in order to continue replenishment and distribution to residents as needed.<\/p>\n The Town continues to monitor the situation closely in collaboration with the appropriate authorities and will share updates as soon as additional information becomes available.<\/p>\n