E. coli Bacteria in Drinking Water Information:

Properties:

E. coli bacteria are gram-negative, rod-shaped, coliform bacteria. This type of bacteria, as opposed to many other types of coliform bacteria, are often faecal in origin and can be harmful to human health.1If E. coli are detected in drinking water, other harmful pathogens such as parasites, viruses and bacteria could also be present.

Sources:

Once E. coli bacteria are consumed by humans or animals, they survive in the intestine and are excreted in faecal matter.1 There are a number of different routes E. coli can take to end up in drinking water; farming and inadequate farm management practices, improper wastewater treatment, inefficient disinfection of raw water supplies, and certain ground water supplies are potential sources of contamination.1 E. coli bacteria can also live in taps and plumbing, but there are steps that can be taken to reduce this risk.2

Regulations:

The maximum allowance of E. coli bacteria in drinking water is 0/100mL.

Health/Environmental Concerns:

E. coli can cause serious health issues for humans. Symptoms associated with E. coli range in severity and can include things like gastroenteritis, urinary tract infections, haemorrhagic colitis, and diarrhoea.1 Faecal matter that contains E. coli may also carry pathogens such as viruses, parasites, and bacteria that further increase the risk to humans. 

Action:

If E. coli is detected in a water supply, it is important to identify any sources of contamination and ensure that proper disinfection methods have been implemented. Contamination by faecal matter is unacceptable for municipal water supplies and any contributing sources must receive immediate attention.3 If you suspect that your drinking water supply is contaminated, contact your Water Service Authority immediately. If drinking water makes you feel ill, contact a doctor right away.

1 Guide to the Parameters in the European Communities. What’s in your water?; S. I. No. 278 of 2007; National Federation of Group Water Schemes: Ireland.

2 Water Quality Standards: Water for Life, 2019. Southern Water Web site (accessed Mar 2, 2020).

3 Guideline Technical Document for Public Consultation. Escherichia coli in Drinking Water; Health Canada; 2019: Canada.