Pathogenic Microorganisms and Viruses in Groundwater
Groundwater represents the quantitative most important freshwater resource on our planet. Generally well protected by overlaying soil and sediment layers, it is a valued source for drinking water. Along with demographic development and global change the quality of groundwater is increasingly challenged by anthropogenic impacts including the direct and indirect introduction of potentially harmful pathogenic microorganisms and viruses. Does this pose a new risk to human health? This review paper provides a brief summary on (1) the diversity of pathogens continuously or occasionally found in groundwater, (2) their sources and ways of entry to groundwater systems, (3) their transport and attenuation, as well as (4) their survival and potential growth in aquifers. Further sections of the paper focus on (5) drinking water contamination and disease outbreaks, (6) developments in pathogen detection and the use of indicator organism. Finally, the report (7) highlights knowledge gaps and open research questions and provides recommendations for safeguarding groundwater and drinking water resources.