Bacteria / Viruses
The presence of bacteria in drinking water, especially E. coli, indicates that the water contains pathogens that can cause headaches or nausea, for example.
Common bacteria and viruses in drinking water
When you think of possible contaminants in your drinking water, bacteria and parasites like E. coli or giardia are probably not the first things that come to mind. But they are particularly dangerous. If they get into our drinking water untreated, these pathogens pose a health risk to humans and animals.
Coliforms in water
Coliform bacteria are a family of bacteria that we have in our digestive tract. This is true and necessary. Coliform bacteria are not necessarily a dangerous group of bacteria, but faecal coliforms, like E. coli, can still cause serious illness.
People can get E. coli if they drink contaminated water or eat bad food. This bacterium is too small to be seen with the naked eye, but big enough to cause serious health problems.
Escherichia coli (E. coli)
Some studies suggest that 83% of E. coli infections are caused by food and water. The bacterium is usually found in the intestines of farm animals and can get into your meat through contact with infected animals, human excreta or contaminated raw fruit and vegetables. To prevent this from happening, food should be heated at 71 degrees. It can also get into your water if it is not properly filtered at your local water treatment plant. Accidentally swallowing contaminated water in swimming pools, lakes and rivers can also make us sick.
Possible effects on health
The presence of E. coli in drinking water indicates that the water may contain pathogens that can cause illness:
- Diarrhoea
- vomiting
- Cramps
- Nausea
- Headache
- fever
- fatigue and
- sometimes even death.
Infants, children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems have a higher risk of becoming ill or even dying from pathogens in drinking water.
Source:
https://www.aquasana.com/info/common-bacteria-viruses-and-parasites-found-in-drinking-water-pd.html
https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/water/contaminants/bacteria.html#HealthEffects