Bacteria Basics: Water- and Air-borne bacteria

Regular hand washing, proper water treatment, and ventilation systems are essential to prevent the spread of water-borne and air-borne bacteria.

 

Bacteria – tiny single-celled organisms that can be found everywhere on Earth – have different modes of transmission. Most known bacteria species do not impact humans, but those that do cause harm can be transmitted through water (water-borne) or air (airborne). How a bacterium is transmitted affects its ability to reproduce and spread infection.

Water-borne bacteria

Water-related illnesses are a leading cause of global death and disease. Altogether, at least 25 million deaths each year occur due to these water-related diseases, including nearly two-thirds of the deaths of children under five years of age. (Doi: 10.1155/2017/7908183)

Illnesses caused by water contamination can be transmitted through drinking water or recreational activities like swimming. Drinking water can become contaminated through improper water treatment practices, leaks, and breaks in pipelines that allow sewage or environmental pathogens to enter the water supply.

interplay between biological aerosols and atmospheric factors
The interplay between biological aerosols and atmospheric factors

Air-borne bacteria

Air-borne bacteria are primarily carried through the air in tiny droplet nuclei or suspended dust particles. A person infected with air-borne pathogens does not need direct contact with another person to spread infection.

Factors Impacting Bacterial Transmission

  1. Cell Size
  2. Spore Forming Capability
  3. Virulence

It is important to note that no hard rule explains why a bacterium might transmit through water or air. Studies have shown that water-borne bacteria tend to affect the digestive system, whereas air-borne bacteria are more likely to cause respiratory illnesses.

 

Conclusion

To protect yourself from water-borne bacteria, make sure you drink only clean, treated water. Be careful not to swallow contaminated water during recreational activities such as swimming.

To protect yourself from air-borne bacteria, avoid close contact with people who are sick and wash your hands frequently. In enclosed spaces, such as schools, hospitals, and religious gathering places, it is essential to maintain HVAC systems regularly to prevent the spread of airborne diseases.

Understanding the dangers of water-borne and air-borne bacteria is crucial to preventing illness and promoting public health. Regular hand washing, proper water treatment, and effective ventilation systems can help prevent the spread of these dangerous microorganisms.

Saumya Garg
Date 01/02/2023

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