An infectious disease specialist spoke about the risks of drinking unboiled tap water

Drinking unboiled tap water is potentially dangerous because it can carry viruses, bacteria, and parasites into the body. This was announced to Izvestia on April 25 by Vladimir Neronov, MD, an infectious disease specialist at JSC "Medicine" (Academician Roitberg Clinic).

According to the expert, among the possible pathogens are hepatitis A viruses, rotaviruses and noroviruses. They are transmitted by the faecal-oral route through contaminated water and can cause severe intestinal infections, as well as liver damage. However, even normal bacteriological parameters of water do not guarantee its viral safety.

"Hepatitis A is a classic example of an "aquatic" infection. The virus is resistant in the external environment and can provoke outbreaks when drinking poor-quality drinking water, especially in regions with impaired sewage and water treatment systems. Although the disease usually does not turn into a chronic form, it can be severe and requires long—term recovery of liver function," the expert explained.

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The doctor also drew attention to rotavirus and norovirus infections, which are among the most common causes of acute gastroenteritis, especially in children. These viruses cause diarrhea, vomiting, and fever, as well as rapid dehydration, which is particularly dangerous for young children and the elderly.

According to the expert, the degree of safety of tap water depends on the quality of its purification and the condition of the networks in a particular region. Even with a good water treatment system, the risk of infection cannot be completely eliminated, especially in case of accidents or violations of sanitary standards.

To reduce the risks, Neronov recommends boiling water, using certified filters, UV treatment, or centralized chlorination. He also advises to observe basic hygiene, wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly and take into account the health status of the most vulnerable groups of the population.

On February 19, Medical Xpress magazine reported on the dangers of a fiber-free diet for memory. According to the study, the effect of eating highly processed foods can appear as early as three days after the start of maintaining an appropriate diet.