Why should be a water supply tested for bacterial contamination?
The water may look crystal clear to the naked eye but may harbor numerous non-visible microorganisms in every drop. Most waterborne microorganisms are harmless. However, a few called pathogens may cause diseases, such as diarrhea; dysentery; gastroenteritis; eye, ear and skin infections; and even hepatitis. When fecal waste accidentally migrates to the water, pathogens may be present. Once they are outside the body, waterborne pathogens are very hard to detect. Fortunately, coliforms are bacteria that can be readily detected wherever waterborne pathogens are found. Coliform bacteria typically come from the intestines of warm-blooded animals and are considered as fecal pollution indicators. Evidence of Coliform bacteria in the water means there is a good chance that fecal contamination, and therefore that waterborne pathogens might be present. Water contamination by sewage or excrement presents the greatest danger to public health associated with drinking water. It has been stated that
