Water contamination can occur to city water supplies, well water supplies, and fresh water sources, such as lakes, streams, and rivers. It is also important to note that nearly all surface water is contaminated with at least one of three types of potentially disease-causing microorganisms: protozoa, bacteria, and viruses.
Although there are many water sources you can drink directly from it is important to understand that you risk ingesting one of these microorganisms. Contaminants can enter water supplies several ways, such as being absorbed into the ground contaminating ground water sources, broken pipes, and excess water run-off during heavy rain periods.
The health effects may or may not present themselves immediately and the overall health, age, and physical condition of the person are factors to be considered.
Some of the more common signs and symptoms someone may experience from drinking contaminated water include, but are not limited to:
It is important to note, just because no signs or symptoms are experienced, does not mean there is no potential for long term effects. long term exposure to some water contaminants has been linked to cancer and heart disease. Other possible contaminates found in water include: