Most of the world currently lives in abundance of advanced technology that aids us in our everyday lives. Unfortunately, however, water contamination around the world remains a significant problem despite these advancements. Even in some of the most developed nations on the planet, issues with infrastructure or lack of adequate infrastructure can lead to contaminated water supplies that have the possibility to cause serious illness. All sorts of viruses, bacteria, and different parasites are all capable of finding their way into the rivers, lakes, and streams that surround us and provide us with the water necessary to keep us well nourished.
Thus, it’s imperative that families are mindful of the risks of these contaminated sources of water and invest in the treatment processes that can save them from the danger these sources of water can cause. Take a family living in a more rural environment as an example. The area that surrounds this family is made up of farm fields that grow different crops and house different animals. One particularly rainy night can result in the fecal remains of these farm fields finding their way into nearby rivers or streams. This can cause the family’s water supply to be infected with E. coli, a bacteria that has been known to cause symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea. Let’s say this same family has an air conditioning system in their home that hasn’t been properly maintained or investigated since moving into the home. If this family is not careful, these systems can become breeding grounds for another water contaminant, Legionella. This bacteria has been known to enter the respiratory system and lead to Legionnaires disease which typically leads to respiratory problems in individuals who contract it.
Families are at risk to a number of other microscopic invaders as well if they’re not properly maintaining the systems in their home. Check out the list below for info and ways to avoid these contaminants.
Salmonella: typically most people think of this bacteria in regards to food, but it is equally as dangerous if contracted through contaminated water. It has even been known to be transmittable through amphibious pets such as lizards or snakes. Symptoms of this infection are typically gastrointestinal.
Pseudomonas: this is a highly contagious pathogen that has been known to cause a wide range of illnesses. Ranging from pneumonia all the way to sepsis, it is a very common contaminant in the plumbing systems of many homes. It also thrives in moist environments around the home.
Giardia Lamblia: a lesser known parasite that has been known to infect those by drinking unclean water. Highly contagious, this parasite can spread without the carrier being entirely asymptomatic. Signs of infection usually include diarrhea, stomach cramps, and a fever.
Fortunately enough, there are preventive measures families can take to ensure these contaminants don’t find their way into the home. Maintenance of all water-based systems in the home is of utmost importance for this reason. Your home’s plumbing, your home’s sprinkler systems, and everything else in between must be properly maintained and inspected to be sure that these contaminants aren’t creeping into your home. For more information on what dangers may be lurking in your pipes and how to handle them, check out the featured infographic below.
Chris Ebener is a mechanical engineer for LiquiTech, with a proven track record of diagnosing and remediating public water system issues of various sizes and complexity. Ebener is an expert on the biochemical makeup of facility water systems, system architecture and various methodologies of public drinking water treatment.
