Health Concern
Bacteria in Drinking Water
Harmful bacteria in water can cause serious illness and indicate contamination from sewage or animal waste.
0 CFU/100mL
EPA Action Level
Various
Chemical Formula
10-20%
FL Homes Affected
Health Effects
Short-term Effects
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Stomach cramps
- Fever
- Dehydration
Long-term Effects
- Chronic digestive issues
- Kidney problems
- Reactive arthritis
- Guillain-Barré syndrome
Common Sources
1
Sewage contamination
2
Animal waste
3
Failed septic systems
4
Surface water infiltration
5
Cross-connections
Detection & Testing
Coliform testing
E. coli testing
Laboratory culture methods
Removal & Treatment Methods
Regulations & Standards
EPA Regulations
EPA requires zero coliform bacteria in public water
Action Level:
0 CFU/100mL
Prevalence in FL:
10-20% of homes