The level of fecal coliform is high in Sangam water, what will be the effect on health? Know here

The Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj is now moving towards its conclusion. So far, more than 50 crore people have taken bath in Sangam. 

This figure may increase in the Maha Kumbh which will continue till 26 February. Every day, lakhs of people are taking bath in Ganga, Yamuna and invisible Saraswati which we call Sangam. 

At the same time, the National Green Tribunal has expressed concern over the high amount of fecal coliform bacteria in Sangam in Prayagraj. 

The Central Pollution Control Board said in its report that this bacteria was found in high amounts during the Maha Kumbh. It was especially seen more during the days of royal bath.

This bacteria reaches the water through the excreta of humans and animals. When dirt, sewage or excreta water mixes with the river, this bacteria also enters the water. 

A large number of people are bathing and performing religious rituals at Sangam and many times dirt is also thrown into the water. Due to this, the amount of fecal coliform in the water has increased there. 

The presence of fecal coliform bacteria in the water of Sangam can cause many types of diseases. These diseases can be many problems like skin disease, diarrhea, urinary infection, sepsis, typhoid and gastroenteritis.

What is fecal coliform bacteria?

Coliform bacteria are a group of bacteria that includes many different bacteria. According to the Washington State Department of Health (WSDOH), these bacteria are found in the intestines and feces of humans and animals. 

They themselves do not cause any serious illness, but their presence in water can be a sign of other dangerous bacteria. Most disease-causing pathogens come from human and animal feces. 

According to the American Institute, one type of total coliform is fecal coliform and one of its types is E. coli bacteria. Total coliform can come from soil or other environmental factors, but fecal coliform and E. coli come from feces. Not every strain of E. coli is dangerous, most often E. coli 0157:H7 is seen as causing illness.

What did the experts say?

According to health experts, 'Health problems are being seen among those returning from Kumbh. Some people are having viral, gastro-enteritis problems, which include diarrhea, vomiting, however, these cases are very few in such a big event. 

Because it is natural for such a huge crowd to happen. Lack of proper food, drinking outside water, staying in crowded areas for a long time. There can be many reasons due to which these problems are being seen in people. 

Experts say that crores of people are bathing in Sangam together. It is obvious that if so many people bathe at one place, the water will be dirty. In such a situation, avoid drinking water while taking a dip in the Ganga.

What effect can it have on health?

Stomach related diseases- If someone drinks such water or bathes in it, he may have problems like diarrhea, vomiting and stomach ache.
Skin allergies and infections – A person can suffer from itching, rashes and fungal infections by bathing in dirty water.
Eye and ear infections – This bacteria can cause eye irritation and ear infections.
Typhoid and jaundice (hepatitis A) – These serious diseases can occur due to prolonged exposure to dirty water.
Urinary tract infection (UTI) – This problem is especially seen more in women and children.