Putting an End to Water-Borne Viruses

Preventing the Spread of Water-Borne Viruses

People often take things for granted. Even the simplest of things. Things like having a roof over their head, even if they’re living in a small house or apartment. Or having clean, running water. Most people don’t even think about it. They just turn on the faucet and fill their glass. For many countries, people can face water-borne diseases on a daily basis. And in certain instances, such as natural disasters, the United States can face these challenges too.

The problem with water-borne diseases is that they can rip through a community quickly and easily, and this is why it’s so critical that homeowners (and cities at large) are careful when filtering water at home. In this article, experts cover some of these occurrences and what you can do to protect your home.

The History of the SARS Virus

The SARS virus (severe acute respiratory syndrome) first appeared in China in the early 2000s. It is a type of coronavirus, meaning it causes severe respiratory tract infections. The virus is transmitted from person to person through droplets in the air.

Meaning, if someone were to cough or sneeze without covering their mouth, droplets from the infected individual could be inhaled by another person standing nearby or could land on a surface which another person could touch and then become infected.

Similarly, if these droplets were to fall into a water source, it could infect the water and whoever drinks it. The virus is highly contagious with symptoms that are similar to influenza symptoms. This can include dry cough, fever, muscle aches, headaches, and breathing difficulty.

Catching the Hepatitis E. Virus From Contaminated Water

Hepatitis E. is known for being transmitted by drinking water that is contaminated with fecal matter. But it’s more common than people might think. Think about the pools and lakes that people go to every spring and summer.

Many pools and beaches have to be shut down at least once a year due to an “accident” that someone had in the water. Every year, there are about 20 million new cases of Hepatitis E. As a result of contracting the virus, the liver can begin to swell.

Common symptoms include jaundice, lack of appetite, nausea, and in rare cases can lead to acute liver failure. Hepatitis E. is no walk in the park either. It can take 4-6 weeks for the virus to resolve itself and no longer cause symptoms. This virus is a nasty one and proves the importance of having access to safe, clean drinking water.

Protecting Your Home

For most homeowners, your water is treated at the city level with some amount of filtration. However, between the facility and your home, tons of impurities and waterborne diseases can make their way into the system.

In most cases, it comes in the form of minerals and bacteria, which can easily create residue in your plumbing and leak to clogs. One way to combat hard water is with a water softener, which can protect your home from any mineral contaminates.

However, when it comes to viral and bacterial infections, you may need a different type of filer. Water filters, like reverse osmosis filters and carbon filters, can help purify water by removing these pollutants almost entirely. It’s always suggested to have your water tested by a professional who will be able to suggest the ideal filtration method for your home.

About Valley Plumbing and Drain Cleaning

Proudly serving West Jordan, UT, Valley Plumbing and Drain Cleaning is dedicated to solving all residential and commercial plumbing problems. No matter the scale of the plumbing issue, they have a solution for every unique problem. Their expert plumbers help customers get their homes back to a comfortable and convenient state.

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