According to the World Health Organisation, 2 billion people worldwide drink contaminated water. Water is an essential part of one’s diet. As it makes up 60% of a person’s body, it is necessary to refuel, recharge, and hydrate by drinking 8-10 glasses of water a day.
In recent years, the COVID-19 pandemic has put a spotlight on the importance of hygiene and increased the awareness of the numerous benefits of consuming safer and cleaner water. Homeowners should be able to have a good source of water for their homes, and it’s a must to make sure this water is clean. Keep in mind that water systems and pipes degrade over time, causing deterioration and the formation of undesired organisms within. With that said, regular tap water might not be the best option for drinking water at home.
Here are just a few examples of what harmful pathogens may be lurking in untreated water.
1. Escherichia Coli
Widely known as E. Coli, it is a type of bacteria that can cause vomiting, nausea, stomach or abdominal pain, and even diarrhoea. Consumption may also cause severe illnesses, especially those with compromised immune systems.
2. Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a severe infection that may be present in unpurified water. It is an inflammation of the liver, with symptoms that include jaundice, dark urine, stomach pain, fatigue, and fever. Hepatitis A has a long incubation period, and symptoms won’t appear until 28 days after exposure.
3. Salmonella
Salmonella is present in certain natural freshwaters, waters used for recreation, and even in irrigation and drinking water. It’s a pathogen that is one of the leading causes of intestinal illnesses worldwide.
4. Legionella Pneumophila
A bacterium that causes an infection known as Legionnaires disease. Waterborne Legionnaires is the most common form of outbreak, and its symptoms range from a mild febrile illness to a severe case of pneumonia.
5. Cryptosporidium
Cryptosporidium is a single-celled organism similar to a parasite. It can cause severe diarrhoea and spread through contaminated drinking water. Cryptosporidium can occur even in cities with clean drinking water. Testing is required to know if such protozoa are present in a community’s water or not.
Conclusion
Despite local water filtration, it’s important not to assume that water from the tap is free from impurities. The examples given above are just the tip of the iceberg. Although there are harmless and beneficial bacteria, the types that hang around in water systems are dangerous. These bacteria can cause a range of mild illnesses to severe and likely deadly diseases.
Take the extra step and invest in water purification for a hygienic drinking habit. Wells Singapore offers safety and peace of mind for homeowners looking for a water purifier in Singapore. At Wells Singapore, we provide a wide range of purifiers to keep your drinking water free of impurities, as well as hot and cold water dispensers that rid of the need for a water tank. Hygienic and cost-effective, you can say goodbye to drinking tap water and embrace a pure and healthy lifestyle.
