NATCHEZ — The Mississippi State Department of Health issued Friday a boil-water alert for customers who receive their drinking water from the Oakland Water Works in Adams County.

The alert affects approximately 900 customers in the area.

Sampling showed the presence of total coliform bacteria in the drinking water.

Health officials strongly recommend all water be boiled vigorously for one minute before it is consumed. This precaution will last at least two full days, and water system officials will be immediately notified when the boil-water alert is lifted.