Microplastic and Bacterial Contamination in Drinking Water: “Emerging Risks to Public Health and Safety"

Abstract

Drinking water is essential to human health, yet increasing evidence suggests that it is increasingly contaminated with both microplastics and harmful bacteria. Microplastics, small plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in size, are pervasive in water sources worldwide, including tap and bottled water. Simultaneously, bacterial contamination continues to represent a significant threat to drinking water quality and public health, especially in areas with inadequate sanitation. This review critically examines the implications of both microplastic and bacterial contamination in drinking water, focusing on the sources, health risks, and interactions between the two contaminants. Moreover, the review discusses strategies to mitigate these threats, highlighting the need for more effective water treatment technologies and stronger environmental regulations. Addressing these dual contaminants is crucial to ensuring safe drinking water and protecting public health.

Keywords

Microplastics, bacterial contamination, drinking water, waterborne diseases, public health, water quality, pollution, environmental contaminants.