How long do pathogens persist and survive in water? A systematic review.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Water is an important vehicle for transmitting pathogens that can cause waterborne diseases. Depending on environmental conditions, pathogenic microorganisms present in water can survive and persist for varying durations. A systematic understanding of pathogen survival and persistence under diverse environmental conditions is important for assessing water safety and guiding treatment requirements.

Methods

A systematic search of PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Scopus databases was conducted to identify studies published from January 1, 1990, to July 17, 2024. Studies were included and analysed if they provided quantitative data on the survival or persistence of bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi in different water sources, under varying environmenta

SUBMITTER: Sosah FK 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12602397 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature