McHenry County Department of Health notes

If your private well casing has been submerged due to the recent heavy rains, McHenry County Department of Health cautions residents that these private water wells could be contaminated. To reduce the risk of illness, water from these wells should not be consumed until tests confirm it is clear of coliform bacteria. Bottled water is recommended for drinking, preparing food or baby formula or brushing teeth.

If coliform bacteria is present, the well will need to be disinfected. Instructions can be found on the Department's Web site, www.mcdh.info.

Residents also can expect that their individual onsite wastewater treatment systems will not function properly when flooded. Septic systems should not be used until flood waters subside.

MCDH will perform testing at no charge for flooded private water wells after flood waters have receded. Sample bottles can be picked up at the department's Woodstock office or at these locations:

Algonquin Townships Office, 3702 Route 14, Crystal Lake, (847) 639-2329

Dorr Township Office, 140 Newell St., Woodstock (815) 338-0125

McHenry Township Office, 3703 Richmond Road, McHenry (815) 385-5605

Nunda Township Office, 3510 Bay Road, Crystal Lake (815) 459-4011

City of Marengo, City Hall, 134 Prairie St., Marengo (815) 568-7112

City of Harvard, Police Department, 201 W. Front St., Harvard (815) 943-4431

Richmond Township Office, 7812 South Route 31, Richmond (815) 678-0077

Grafton Township Office, 10109 Vine St., Huntley (847) 669-3328

MCDH also cautions residents about the dangers of floodwater contaminated with bacteria, viruses and other organisms. Common waterborne illness symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal cramps. Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms persist. Parents should also restrict children from swimming or playing in flood waters.

To prevent the spread of disease, always wash your hands thoroughly with plenty of warm water and soap before handling, preparing or eating food.

Cleaning up after a flood can be overwhelming. Be sure to disinfect any food preparation surfaces that may have been contaminated by floodwater. Any food or beverage containers should also be carefully examined. Flooded indoor areas such as walls, floors, etc. must be scrubbed with warm, soapy water. Wash all linens and clothing in hot water or dry clean. If there is sewage backup in the basement, it can be disposed of by pumping it into the toilet or floor drains if the drains are connected to the septic system. Do not pump sewage-contaminated water into the yard or into the street.

For more information about floodwater clean-up and recovery, visit www.mcdh.info or call the department's Environmental Health Division at (815) 334-4585.