Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection advises East Brady borough residents to boil their water before use after a chemical was mistakenly introduced to the water supply.

According a release by the department Sunday, the certified operator for East Brady Borough Water System noticed unusual water samples that led to the discovery that sodium bisulfite was introduced to the system.

“East Brady Borough Water System has worked with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, its certified operator and the chemical supplier to identify the previously unknown chemical as sodium bisulfite, which in itself is NSF approved as an additive to drinking water and not a human health concern at the concentrations added to the water system,” the release said.

The department said the introduction of sodium bisulfite to the supply resulted in a loss of disinfection, leading to an increased chance water may contain disease-causing organisms.

In the meantime, residents are advised to boil their water until further notice. Children, the elderly and people with increased risks should seek advice from their doctor, the department said.

For further information, contact East Brady Borough officials. If you are experiencing symptoms related to waterborne illness, the department advises consulting your doctor.