Owners and operators of small water systems have a critical role in the delivery of safe drinking water. In fact, they are legally responsible for providing safe water to their users. It can be argued that they also have an ethical obligation to provide potable water.
Waterborne Illness
Around the world, people become ill from drinking contaminated water every day.
The World Health Organization estimates that 88% of all diarrheal diseases worldwide are caused by an unsafe water supply, sanitation, and hygiene.
In Canada, there were over 27,500 cases of giardiasis alone reported between 1996 and 2000. Occasionally, large outbreaks are linked to a specific source and cause. Accounts of specific outbreaks are available at the Canada Communicable Disease Report website:
Waterborne illness is often unreported or under-reported. Many cases of waterborne illness are reported but may not be linked to unsafe water. Inconsistent reporting makes it difficult for the public health community to estimate the scope of the problem.
A variety of diseases are transmissible by water. These include protozoa such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium; bacteria including E. coli, Campylobacter, and Shigella; and viruses like hepatitis A. Parasitic worms can also be passed on through contaminated water.
In addition to the common symptoms of abdominal cramps and diarrhea, many of these disease-causing microbes can cause long-term illness, permanent damage, and even death.
*Also note: As well as affecting the taste and odour of water, chemical contamination can also cause serious illness.