Glossary

Pathogens

Pathogens are parasites which cause disease.

Water borne pathogens include:

• bacteria
• Cryptosporidium – a group of parasites that cause diarrhoea
• Giardia – a group of single-celled, flagellated parasites that infect the gastrointestinal tract in humans causing diarrhoea.

Sydney Water tests for Cryptosporidium and Giardia in a sample of at least 100 litres of water for a number of the locations each day. All testing is carried out by a laboratory accredited by the National Association of Testing Authorities, Australia (NATA).