Microorganisms are widely present in soil, food, and water. Recently, bacterial and viral diseases linked to water contamination have emerged as a global health concern. Contaminated water serves as a source of disease transmission, and a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that 60% of the global burden of diarrheal illnesses is directly related to unsafe water. Major contributors to water contamination include urbanization, untreated industrial waste, sewage, and hospital discharges.
Testing water for every pathogen is impractical, so common indicator organisms are used to assess water quality. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 28 indicator organisms, including 12 bacteria, 8 viruses, 6 protozoa, and 2 parasites, are considered waterborne pathogens. The presence of coliform bacteria, particularly E. coli, is often used as an indicator of recent fecal contamination in water samples, helping scientists monitor water safety for human consumption.
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Science of the Total Environment