Research highlights: functions of the drinking water microbiome – from treatment to tap

Abstract

Maintaining drinking water safety from treatment to point-of use is a critical health priority. Growth and proliferation of opportunistic pathogens in premise plumbing is a well-known concern that can be mitigated by controlling water heater temperatures and water stagnation patterns. However, there is growing evidence that upstream processes, beginning with choice of treatment methods, have significant influences on premise plumbing microbial communities. Here, we highlight four papers that explore the roles of microbial communities in drinking water quality, and how design and treatment choices shape these roles.