The Ebola virus cannot spread through the water supply, according to information released by the Water Research Foundation. The internationally recognized leader in water research has provided the following information in response to inquiries about Ebola that some water utilities are receiving: Ebola is not a foodborne, waterborne or airborne illness. It is transmitted to humans from wild animals and spreads in the human population through human-to-human transmission. Transmission occurs through direct contact with infected bodily fluids, such as blood, vomit and feces. The Ebola virus cannot survive long in water because it can only replicate within host cells — from a human or an animal. Because of Ebola’s fragility when separated from its host, bodily fluids flushed by an infected person would not contaminate the water supply.
Researchers believe Ebola survives in water for only a matter of minutes because water does not provide the same environment as bodily fluids, which have higher salt concentrations. Once in water, the virus will take in water, causing the cells to swell and burst — killing the virus.
But if you are still concerned about the Ebola virus or any other harmful bacteria or virus entering your home through the water supply you may want to consider a Whole house UV disinfection system.
Does UV light kill Ebola?
UV Disinfection has been found to be effective against the Ebola Virus, and many other harmful bacteria and viruses. UV Disinfection is a method that uses ultraviolet (UV) light at sufficiently short wavelength to kill microorganisms. It is also referred to as Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI). It is used in many applications, such as water and air purification. UV Disinfection utilises short-wavelength ultraviolet radiation (UV-C), which has a wavelength in the range of 100nm to 280nm. UV-C is harmful to microorganisms and is effective in destroying the nucleic acids in these organisms so that their DNA is disrupted. Studies have confirmed that UV-C radiation is effective in deactivating Ebola virus. One extremely inexpensive whole house UV system is the PURA® Product’s UV20 Series™ designed to provide disinfected water at a flow rate of 8 – 10 gallons per minute. This system is ideal for whole house water treatment. In addition to disinfection, the double and triple models provide filtration for the removal of sediment and chemical contaminants. This ultraviolet water treatment system makes a perfect companion to water softeners, distillers, reverse osmosis and ozone systems. The UV20 Series™ has proven to be PURA® Product’s most popular product line and has created an industry standard in whole-house disinfection.
Are you having problems with your water filtration or the quality of your water? Please do not hesitate to call us. We are trained professionals dedicated to solving all your water quality issues. Call us at 800-942-7873 or click the link below to ask a question.
The Water Research Foundation cited the following resources:
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Very informative about the prevention of Ebola viruses.