Nocardia Bacteria in Drinking Water

The good news is that it is rare to find Nocardia bacteria in treated water. Another good news is that it is rare to contract any disease through the intake of this bacteria if you have a decent strong immune system. If you want more details, read on

What is Nocardia bacteria?

They are rod shaped bacteria mostly found in soil which is rich in organic matter. There is a possibility of inhaling these bacteria through dust. Kids can get infected when they play in dirty soil.

This bacteria is also found in waste water and usually result in forth formation during the water treatment process. Treated water is free of this bacteria.

Nocardia bacteria has low virulence and hence is harmless to any human with an average immunity.

Can you body deal with Nocardia bacteria?

Yes. An average immune system can easily tackle the infection of this bacteria. Babies are the ones who are the possible targets of these bacteria, since they have an under developed immune system.

If you are suffering from immune deficiency disorder you can be susceptible to an attack from this bacteria.

What are the diseases caused by Nocardia bacteria?

The disease is usually causes in the lungs and its called Nocardiosis. The usual symptoms are fever, cough and chest pain. The infection is usually in lungs and the chest area. Continued and untreated infection can have some severe consequences like brain abscesses.

Antibiotics can easily treat this disease. Sulfonamides in high doses are used to treat major infections of Nocardiosis.

How to safe guard against Nocardia bacteria?

Keep the kids from playing in soil as this is the usual way of contracting infection. Drinking water is usually safe from bacteria as it is treated before supplying to the households, but to be on the safer side you should boil and filter the water at home.