FAECAL
COLIFORM CONTAMINATION: SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
NEWS: Faecal
coliform bacteria: What is it? How does it affect your health?
WHAT’S
IN THE NEWS?
The Central Pollution Control Board
(CPCB) report highlights the contamination of Prayagraj's holy river with
faecal coliform bacteria, posing serious health risks such as gastrointestinal,
skin, respiratory infections, and other diseases.
Health
Risks from Faecal Coliform Contamination
- Pathogens
such as E. coli and Salmonella found in faecal coliform can lead to
severe digestive problems.
- Symptoms
typically include diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps, which can be
debilitating and require medical attention.
- Dermatological and
Ocular Problems:
- Contact
with contaminated water can cause skin rashes, which may be itchy or
painful.
- Eye
irritation and fungal infections can also occur, necessitating treatment
to prevent further complications.
- Diseases
like typhoid and hepatitis A are serious concerns as they can spread
through ingestion of contaminated water.
- These
diseases can cause long-term health issues and, in severe cases, be
life-threatening.
- Respiratory
Complications:
- Inhalation
of contaminated water droplets can lead to respiratory infections.
- These
infections can range from mild irritation to severe lung infections that
might require hospitalization.
Expanded
Role and Functions of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)
- Advisory and
Regulatory Role:
- The
CPCB plays a crucial role in advising the central government on how to
prevent and control water and air pollution.
- It
also sets and modifies environmental standards for the quality of
streams, wells, and air.
- Coordination and
Technical Assistance:
- It
acts as the coordinating body among State Pollution Control Boards,
helping to resolve disputes and ensure unified action against pollution.
- The
board also provides technical assistance and guidance to these state
boards, enhancing their capacity to manage pollution.
- Research and
Development:
- CPCB
carries out and sponsors research related to water and air pollution
problems.
- This
research helps in developing new strategies and technologies for
pollution control and abatement.
- Education and
Awareness Programs:
- Organizes
comprehensive mass awareness campaigns through various media channels.
- These
programs aim to educate the public about the importance of pollution
control and ways to reduce environmental impact.
- Data Management and
Environmental Standards:
- Collects,
compiles, and publishes technical and statistical data related to
pollution and its control measures.
- Prepares
manuals, codes, and guidelines for the treatment and disposal of sewage
and industrial effluents, as well as standards for gas cleaning devices.
These elaborated points offer a deeper insight into the serious health
risks posed by faecal coliform contamination in the river at Prayagraj and
illustrate the multifaceted role of the CPCB in addressing environmental and
public health challenges.
Source: https://www.business-standard.com/india-news/faecal-coliform-bacteria-what-is-it-how-does-it-affect-your-health-nc-125022000291_1.html