What must be tested for after a routine sample tests positive for total coliform bacteria?

What must be tested for after a routine sample tests positive for total coliform bacteria?

• A. Test for Giardia
• B. Test for Cryptosporidium
• C. Test for viruses
• D. Test for presence of E.coli

Answer: (D)

When a routine water sample tests positive for total coliform bacteria, it indicates potential contamination and the necessity for further investigation. The presence of total coliforms suggests that the water may contain harmful pathogens, and one of the primary pathogens of concern is E. coli. E. coli is a specific type of fecal coliform bacteria and its presence directly correlates with fecal contamination, which can pose serious health risks. Testing for E. coli helps determine if there is a greater public health risk and if further actions are needed to protect water quality. A positive E. coli result would prompt immediate measures to address potential contamination, ensuring the safety of the drinking water supply. In contrast, while testing for Giardia, Cryptosporidium, or viruses is also important in evaluating water quality and safety, these tests serve different purposes and do not directly address the immediate implications of a total coliform positive test. Each of these pathogens has different sources and risk factors, whereas E. coli is a specific signal that further investigation is warranted to prevent potential outbreaks.

When a routine water sample tests positive for total coliform bacteria, it indicates potential contamination and the necessity for further investigation. The presence of total coliforms suggests that the water may contain harmful pathogens, and one of the primary pathogens of concern is E. coli.

E. coli is a specific type of fecal coliform bacteria and its presence directly correlates with fecal contamination, which can pose serious health risks. Testing for E. coli helps determine if there is a greater public health risk and if further actions are needed to protect water quality. A positive E. coli result would prompt immediate measures to address potential contamination, ensuring the safety of the drinking water supply.

In contrast, while testing for Giardia, Cryptosporidium, or viruses is also important in evaluating water quality and safety, these tests serve different purposes and do not directly address the immediate implications of a total coliform positive test. Each of these pathogens has different sources and risk factors, whereas E. coli is a specific signal that further investigation is warranted to prevent potential outbreaks.