The Mississippi Department of Health has issued a boil water notice the University of Mississippi and any individuals who receive their water from the University.

The notice was issued just after 1 p.m. on Friday after the Mississippi Department of Health determined the presence of E. Coli bacteria in a water sample. It is recommended that any water being used for drinking, cooking or bathing be boiled for at least one minute before being used.

The presence of bacteria in the water supply is usually due to a problem with the water treatment process or with the pipes that distribute the water, a news release from the state Department of Health said.

No timeline has been given from the University for when the notice might be lifted, but those impacted by the notice are encouraged to flush faucets once the notice has ended. The Department of Health recommends that buildings with one faucet run for 10 minutes, those with two faucets should run each for five minutes. Residences or businesses with three or more faucets should run each for three to four minutes.

It is also recommended that any drinks, ice or food made during the boil water notice be discarded, and that dishwashers should be put through at least one cycle before washing dishes. Any dishes washed during the notice should also be rewashed to avoid possible contamination.