INTRODUCTION
In developed nations, many assume water is free of pathogens. In spite of this
expectation, community water systems are often cited as sources of waterborne
infections. In a healthcare system, the potable water may be a source of
hospital- acquired infection.
A sink or shower may harbor a variety of microbial “monsters,”
particularly in the slime layer or biofilm of plumbing systems. Waterborne
disease causing organisms may include bacteria, fungi, protozoan Parasites and
viruses. Transmission of these pathogens may occur via con tact, ingestion,
aspiration or aerosolization.
Many of
these microorganisms are of little concern for healthy ‘individuals. However,
for immunocompromised individuals, these microbes can be “opportunistic”
pathogens, capitalizing on the compromised status of their host. Specific
populations are at higher risk for waterborne infections, such as the elderly
and very young as well as AIDS, transplant, cancer and dialysis patients. In
view of this, a state health advisory recommended that immunocompromised
patients “bring water to a rolling boil for one minute before use” in their
homes.
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