E. coli Contamination in Drinking Water Around Tampa Bay, Florida
Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria are commonly found in the environment, foods, and intestines of people and animals. Although most strains of E. coli are harmless, others can make you sick. E. coli becomes a concern when found in drinking water.
Presence of E. coli Contaminant in Drinking Water
E. coli enters drinking water sources through fecal matter from humans or animals. Runoff could carry E. coli from farms or wildlife into rivers, lakes, or groundwater. Leaking sewage pipes or septic systems can also introduce E. coli into ground and surface water.
E. coli itself is not harmful, but indicates possible sewage contamination. Sewage may contain other disease-causing bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Any amount of E. coli in drinking water is considered unacceptable due to the health risks.
According to the Environmental Working Group, E. coli contaminates water systems across Florida. Counties around Tampa Bay with E. coli detections include:
Pinellas County
Clearwater
Dunedin
Indian Rocks Beach
Largo
Oldsmar
Palm Harbor
Safety Harbor
Seminole
Tarpon Springs
Pasco County
Dade City
Holiday
New Port Richey
Port Richey
San Antonio
Spring Hill
Wesley Chapel
Zephyrhills
Hillsborough County
Brandon
Lithia
Lutz
Odessa
Plant City
Riverview
Sun City Center
Tampa
Valrico
Health Concerns from E. coli in Water
Most E. coli strains only affect the gastrointestinal system, causing diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting. However, pathogens like E. coli O157:H7 produce toxins that severely damage the lining of the digestive tract, resulting in bloody diarrhea.
Vulnerable populations like young children, seniors, and those with compromised immune systems are at greatest risk. Severe infections can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome, which causes kidney failure and even death.
Beyond the acute symptoms, research shows links between E. coli in drinking water and escalated cancer risks. The toxins damage DNA and disrupt the microbiome, allowing cancer cells to proliferate throughout the body.
Water Treatment Solutions for E. coli
To protect your health, take action to eliminate E. coli if found in your water supply. Aqua-Wise Water Treatment Solutions offers various effective systems:
AquaGuard UV SYSTEM uses ultraviolet light to deactivate bacteria, viruses, and protozoa without chemicals.
AquaRevive Reverse Osmosis System filters out physical and chemical contaminants through a multi-stage process.
HydroClear Ozone Generator infuses water with ozone to oxidize bacteria and viruses.
Retention Tank + Chlorine Injection System disinfects stored water.
WellFusion Well Water Treatment Systems combine filtration and sanitization for private well sources.
HydroTech Pro Commercial Water Treatment Systems for large facilities like apartments, schools, businesses, etc.
No single system removes every contaminant. A whole house water test determines your specific water quality issues. Aqua-Wise then engineers a custom solution for clean, safe water from every tap.
Additional Resources:
Florida Department of Health: Coliform Bacteria and Drinking Water
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: E. coli
Environmental Protection Agency: Basic Information about E. coli in Drinking Water
Protecting Your Health
Schedule your no-cost water testing appointment to check for contaminants like E. coli. Aqua-Wise also offers financing options to make clean water accessible for any home.