Bacteria Water
Symptoms of bacterial water exposure include diarrhea, cramps,
nausea, headaches and vomiting.
The presence of bacteria in drinking water is usually a problem
with the treatment system or the pipes which distribute water, and indicates that the water may be
contaminated with germs that can cause disease.
Fecal Coliform and E coli are bacteria whose presence indicates that the water may
be contaminated with human or animal wastes. Microbes in these wastes can cause short-term effects, such as
diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches, or other symptoms.
Turbidity has no health effects. However, turbidity can interfere with
disinfection and provide a medium for microbial growth. Turbidity may indicate the presence of disease causing
organisms. These organisms include bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps,
diarrhea, and associated headaches.
Cryptosporidium is a parasite that enters lakes and rivers through sewage and
animal waste. It causes cryptosporidiosis, a mild gastrointestinal disease. However, the disease can be severe or
fatal for people with severely weakened immune systems. EPA and CDC have prepared advice for those with severely compromised immune
systems who are concerned about Cryptosporidium.
Giardia lamblia is a parasite that enters lakes and rivers through sewage and
animal waste. It causes gastrointestinal illness (e.g. diarrhea, vomiting, cramps).
Testing for Coliform Bacteria Water: WaterCheck Test
kit
Recommended Treatment: Chlorination or Ultraviolet Light.
Bacteria Water Reference Source:
USEPA Safewater Facts
Return from Bacteria Water to Water
Quality and Toxicities.
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