Bacteria

Domestic wastewater contains a wide variety and concentration of pathogenic bacteria. Infectious doses of disease causing bacteria in wastewater can lead to illness.

Parasites

Domestic wastewater has the potential to contain a range of parasites. Of greatest concern in wastewater are protozoan parasites, cryptosporidium and giardia, and helminths or intestinal worms. Protozoan parasites are often resistant to standard disinfection methods, while helminths release millions of environmentally resilient eggs throughout their lifespan.

Viruses

Domestic wastewater has the potential to contain viruses. Viruses are more common and diverse than bacteria and can cause widespread illness.