There are many ways diseases can spread but one of the most common ways is by consuming contaminated food or water. Contaminated water is responsible for 3.4 million deaths every year. In many cases, these deaths could have been completely prevented had the right resources been in place and if a professional plumber was involved.

Waterborne disease is spread through pathogens and bacteria that are in the water. Some common diseases that are spread through water include:

• Typhoid fever
• Dysentery
• Cholera
• Diarrhea
• Hepatitis E
• Cryptosporidium
• Gastroenteritis
• Schistosomiasis

In some situations, a person’s water supply becomes contaminated. This may be due to faulty plumbing or do-it-yourself remedies that cause backflow or for pipes to be connected in a way that is against code and that jeopardizes a family’s health. Sometimes a person becomes ill after drinking swimming pool water that is contaminated. At times, an entire water supply is contaminated due to certain chemicals or minerals seeping into it, such as radon, uranium or arsenic. Chemical plants that dump into nearby water reservoirs are often responsible for this high-level contamination. Sewer overflows can also cause waterborne diseases to spread.

Drinking water usually comes from surface water or ground water. The Environmental Protection Agency reports that 68 percent of public water system users receive their water through some type of surface water source like a lake. There is more treatment required for surface water because it is more likely to be contaminated. The Environmental Protection reports that approximately 15 percent of people rely on private ground water wells for their water. Ground water is any water that is below ground level. Public water suppliers are more likely to use this water than private citizens.

People rely on the use of water for many tasks every day, including washing their hands, bathing, cooking, cleaning and consuming. When they come into contact with contaminants, they may suffer from a number of serious complications, including gastrointestinal problems, reproductive problems and even neurological disorders. While anyone is at risk who comes into contact with such contaminants, pregnant women, babies, young children, the elderly and individuals who have weaker immune systems are often more susceptible to illnesses caused by these contaminants.

A professional plumber serves an important role in protecting the health of individuals and families. He or she can ensure that connections are made in a proper manner to avoid backflow. He or she can test the quality of the water to ensure that the water is being properly treated and is safe to consume. He or she can make repairs involving broken pipes, new construction or renovated areas to ensure that all plumbing responsibilities are up to code to ensure the health and safety of a building’s occupants.

Trust Clearwater Plumbing for all your plumbing needs

Clearwater Plumbing is dedicated to protecting you and your family. We perform all plumbing work to the highest industry standards so you can rest comfortably knowing that your family and your home are protected. Contact us at 727-446-8355 or online.