We live in an age of advanced technology. Sadly, however, water contamination remains a significant problem around the world despite our advancements. Even in the richest nations on Earth, infrastructure issues can lead to contaminated drinking water supplies that could cause serious illnesses. Viruses, bacteria and parasites all can find their way into rivers, lakes and streams that in turn feed into the sources on which we depend to nourish us.

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WHAT MAY BE LURKING
I N Y O U R W A T E R
L E G I O N E L L A
Legionella bacteria is responsible for Legionnaires’ disease, a flu-like illness
that primarily affects the lungs. Coughing and shortness of breath are the
chief symptoms, but other flu-like ailments such as vomiting and muscle
aches are also common. The main way in which people are infected with
Legionella is through breathing contaminated water droplets.
S A L M O N E L L A
This bacteria type is easily transmittable, and can even spread from
animals to people. In particular, pet turtles, lizards and snakes can carry
it and transmit it to their owners. Once infected, people might experience
severe gastrointestinal symptoms. These can include nausea, diarrhea,
vomiting and stomach cramps.
E . C O L I
A common form of bacteria found in the digestive systems of living
organisms, certain strains can cause illnesses when introduced into
drinking water supplies. This is often caused by insufficient treatment of
wastewater or being carried into freshwater by storm runoff. Consuming
water contaminated with E. coli can lead to severe abdominal cramping,
vomiting and diarrhea.
P S E U D O M O N A S
This highly contagious pathogen can cause a wide range of illnesses, from
pneumonia to urinary tract infection to sepsis. It is responsible for more
than 50,000 documented infections in the United States every year. This
is due to the fact that it is extremely common and can be found in many
plumbing systems and moist environments.
G I A R D I A L A M B L I A
This is a parasite that people can pick up by drinking unclean water. It is highly
contagious and can be spread even when the carrier exhibits no outward
signs of infection. If someone shows symptoms of being infected, though, he
or she may experience diarrhea, stomach cramps and a low fever.
Microscopic invaders such as bacteria and parasites may
be hiding in your water supply. Read on to learn more about
some of the most prevalent of these dangers.