An E.coli warning has been issued to some parts of the NSW Central Coast after the bacteria were detected in the water supply.
Residents in Kariong are being advised to boil all water used for drinking, cooking and cleaning teeth.
The E.coli bacteria was identified during a routine monitoring of the water supply last week.
"The routine testing that we carry out throughout the water supply system on Thursday found two E.coli organisms in 100mls of water. A follow up sample found one," Michael Redrup from Gosford City Council told 2UE radio on Monday.
"Now, these are fairly small amounts but the indication is there.
"Our protocol is to err on the side of caution and issue a Boil Water Alert."
Local primary and high schools are within the affected area and children are advised to take bottled or cooled boiled drinking water to school.
Residents are also being warned to boil water for their pets, for making ice and for washing uncooked food.
Gosford City Council will carry out further testing on Tuesday.
"The Boil Water Alert will stay until we can convince ourselves that everything is clear," Mr Redrup said.
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