Large parts of the city of Niles are under a boil order due to coliform bacteria in the drinking water.

The order was issued late yesterday by the city after officials first detected the bacteria in water samples taken this month. Workers flushed the system and took additional samples but the bacteria is still there.

The affected area runs along US-12 south by Mayflower Road all the way north of the city to just above Platt Street. The advisory states DO NOT DRINK THE WATER WITHOUT BOILING IT FIRST. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, and preparing food.

Officials say the problem could be with the treatment or distribution system. They add this was not E. coli, but they are working to determine the source. They hope to resolve the issue within 5 days.