What are Viruses, Bacteria, and Cysts?
Viruses are the smallest microorganisms. They usually attach to particles, although they can be in the water in free form as well. They are generally found in water where there is decaying flesh or sewage. Bacteria are larger and can become infected with viruses. Cysts are generally larger in size, are protozoan in type and have a hard shell. Both Giardia and Cryptosporidium are common cysts. Cryptosporidium is not Killed by the chlorine or iodine.
