The Coliform Index and Waterborne Disease

This book provides the first full account of the nature and applications of the Coliform Index, coverage of new and proposed water quality legislation and details of emerging pathogens in water as well as an evaluation of the role of the "coliform
This text provides an account of the nature and applications of the Coliform Index. Since the beginning of the 20th century, indicator organisms, in particular the coliform group, have been used to ensure the microbial quality of drinking water. World-wide legislation to protect consumers is based on these out-dated and unreliable tests and while there is considerable concern among scientists over their use, the water industry and regulators continue to place near total reliance on the Coliform Index. This has serious implications for public health and necessitates the debate which this book enters.