Sewage intrusion into drinking water distribution systems: implications for water resource management
Jibrin Ndejiko Mohammed1, Feroz Mahomed Swalaha2
1Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Durban University of Technology, P O Box 1334, Durban, South Africa. ndejiko@ibbu.edu.ng.
Environmental Monitoring and Assessment
|September 26, 2025
Summary
Sewage intrusion into drinking water systems poses significant health risks, increasing bacteria and antibiotic resistance. Addressing this requires infrastructure upgrades and better management to ensure safe water supplies.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Public Health
- Microbiology
Background:
- Sewage infiltration into drinking water distribution systems (DWDS) is a critical global challenge.
- Outdated infrastructure and increased water pressure exacerbate sewage intrusion.
- Even minor intrusion causes significant microbiological changes, including increased bacterial biomass, diversity, and altered dissolved organic matter (DOM).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize recent studies on sewage intrusion into DWDS.
- To focus on mechanisms, contributing factors, and adverse effects of intrusion.
- To explore management and mitigation strategies for sewage intrusion.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing scientific studies.
- Analysis of factors contributing to sewage intrusion.
- Evaluation of impacts on water quality, public health, and antibiotic resistance.
Main Results:
- Sewage intrusion significantly alters DWDS microbiology and water quality.
- Intrusion increases risks of waterborne diseases and antibiotic resistance.
- Effective management requires a multi-faceted approach including infrastructure, monitoring, and policy.
Conclusions:
- Urgent investment in resilient infrastructure and advanced treatment is crucial.
- Coordinated strategies are needed to manage short-term health risks and long-term sustainability.
- Policymakers and water managers must prioritize safeguarding public health and drinking water reliability.
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