13
Nov
2020
Drinking Water

Is Rainwater Safe to Drink?
06
Nov
2020
Treatment
by Linda Golodner

Public Perception and Trust of U.S. Drinking Water Quality

In a nutshell… This article examines public trust and factors affecting consumer confidence in the quality and safety of drinking water provided by community water systems. It highlights the results of a recently completed national survey of 2,200 U.S. adults by the American Water Works Association.   Most Americans enjoy year-round access to safe drinking... Read More »
30
Oct
2020
Public Health
by Joan B. Rose, PhD, and Heather Murphy, PhD, P Eng

COVID-19 Pandemic Highlights Need for Universal Access to Safe Water and Sanitation

In a nutshell… The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the need for universal access to safely managed drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene. Acutely aware of a lack of progress toward achieving the 17 United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) pre-pandemic, and new impediments resulting from the pandemic, innovative projects around the globe can help inspire... Read More »
23
Oct
2020
Public Health
by Bruce K. Bernard, PhD, and Stephen A. Hubbs, PE

Extremely Rare but Deadly: Brain-Eating Naegleria fowleri Amoeba in Water

In a nutshell… This article discusses Naegleria fowleri risk and prevention in water. These free-living amoebas can thrive in warm freshwaters such as lakes and sometimes inadequately treated, warm household (e.g., drinking, bathing) water. Entry of contaminated water through the nose—not by swallowing—can lead to a fatal brain infection. Only a handful of cases are... Read More »
25
Sep
2020
Wastewater
by Chris Wiant, MPH, PhD

Is “Gray Water” Safe for Domestic Reuse?

In a nutshell… This article discusses the potential importance and real challenges associated with reusing household “gray water,” a growing practice in many arid areas of the United States. Although everyone can agree that it will save potable water, not everyone agrees on how gray water should be reused domestically.   No matter how you... Read More »
11
Sep
2020
Treatment
by Water Quality & Health Council

Legionella Bacteria Concerns Grow as Schools Reopen

In a nutshell… COVID-19, building closures, and stagnant water can form an unfortunate “trifecta” when it comes to Legionella bacteria and other microorganism growth in building water systems. This article highlights recent reports of Legionella detections in school water systems and steps to safely reopen school buildings to protect students, faculty, staff, and visitors.  ... Read More »
21
Aug
2020
Outbreaks
by Bob G. Vincent, MPA

How Algal Blooms Can Impact Water Quality: What You Should Know

In a nutshell… The summer of coronavirus (COVID-19) has been relatively mild for blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) blooms in the Great Lakes. But problem areas can be found in many states. This article provides an overview of the public health importance of harmful algal blooms on recreational waters and sources of treated drinking water.   Photo... Read More »
31
Jul
2020
Drinking Water
by Heather Murphy, PhD, P Eng, and Stephen A. Hubbs, PE

Coronavirus Creates New Challenges for Small and Rural Drinking Water Systems

In a nutshell… Many small U.S. community water systems were already struggling with economic, technical, and regulatory challenges before coronavirus (COVID-19) made them bigger. This article highlights how small and rural utilities are coping to stay operational during the pandemic.   The majority (97%) of the nation’s 146,000+ active public water systems are considered “small”... Read More »