E. Coli

In Walkerton Ontario, many people don’t even drink a glass of water from the kitchen taps, for fear of their lives. This is because of Escherichia Coli (E. coli). This bacterium has been found to be the cause of over 2,300 illnesses and either the main factor or a contributing factor in 7 deaths. “As far back as 1978, tests revealed fecal coliform contamination in Walkerton’s wells.” (Verma and Donovan, Oct. 14/00) *(1,2,3) E. coli was found in water testing, on May 15, and it was not until six days later that the citizens were informed of the deadly bacteria. “The outbreak laid bare how a decade of neglect, government cutbacks and weakened controls has undermined the safety of our water supply.” (Verma and Donovan, Oct. 14/00)

In May of 2000, 7 people died and approximately 2,300 became ill because of harmful bacteria called E. coli in the Walkerton water. Total coliform bacteria are a collection of relatively harmless microorganisms that live in large numbers in the intestines of man and warm and cold-blooded animals. A specific subgroup of this collection is the fecal coliform bacteria, including the Escherichia coli. These organisms have the ability to grow at elevated temperatures i

. . .

View the whole essay, without interruption

The contaminated water floods the outflow pipe and into the well shaft. 11/00) McQuigge also said “wells that are most susceptible appear to be those located in areas with a fractured limestone topography commonly found in Grey-Bruce area. On May 23, McQuigge’s office gets lab results that determine the water is contaminated with E. Another report from Walkerton indicated that two elementary schools had experienced a definite increase in absenteeism beginning May 17. 18/00) They also replaced almost 5 km of cast-iron water-mains that were tremendously encrusted with mineral deposits from many years. Escherichia coli 0157 was first identified as a serious cause of illness in humans in 1982. coli many more people become ill unnecessarily. The outbreak mainly affected young children and the older population. coli bacteria is due to a tremendous storm. Thompson has been criticized for not doing anything to inform the city residents immediately.

Approximate Word count = 1351
Approximate Pages = 5 (250 words per page double spaced)

Simply subscribe to view this paper, and 100,000 others.