Coliform

Posted: March 27th, 2020

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Coliform

Coliform mainly comprise bacterial organisms normally present within the fecal matter of human beings and the environment (Washington State Department of Health, 2). In most situations, the respective bacteria do not lead to illnesses in their hosts. Despite this, their presence within drinking water illustrates that organisms, specifically pathogens, may be evident within the water structure. Most of the disease-causing bacteria that are capable of contaminating water sources arise from the feces of animals or human beings. Usually, coliform bacteria tend to originate within soil and vegetation. In addition to this, a type of the respective bacteria (fecal coli) is commonly present within the intestinal region of most warm-blooded animals (Washington State Department of Health, 3). Coliform bacteria are easily identifiable since they occur in considerable numbers than most disease-causing organisms. Furthermore, the respective bacteria respond to the environment as well as treatment procedures that are similar to those used in cases involving the presence of pathogens. By assessing coliform bacteria, the decrease or increase in the population of numerous pathogenic bacteria may be approximated. Normally, coliform bacteria can be easily disseminated in various ways. Foremost, runoff arising from pastures, woodlands, sewage plants, and septic tanks contribute immensely to the transmission of these bacterial organisms (Division of Drinking Water 39). Additionally, domestic animals are responsible for significant contribution towards the presence of bacterial population. In other situations, several coliform bacteria can be deposited directly into naturally occurring streams from water-based wastes as well as overflows from regions with a high rate of animal or human concentration (Division of Drinking Water 45). It is imperative to test for the presence of coliform bacteria. Usually, pathogenic organisms can be unusual and difficult in detection irrespective of their possible presence in water. Therefore, due to the nature of such organisms, performing evaluations for them offers a scope of safety.

Works Cited

Division of Drinking Water. Coliform Bacteria and Drinking Water. Olympia: Washington State Dept. of Health Environmental Health Programs, 2012. Print.

Washington State Department of Health. “Coliform Bacteria in Drinking Water.” Washington State Department of Health. n. d. Web. 3 Oct. 2015. <http://www.doh.wa.gov/CommunityandEnvironment/DrinkingWater/Contaminants/Coliform/>