What common pathogen is targeted by chlorination in drinking water?

Chlorination is primarily used in water treatment to eliminate pathogenic microorganisms that can pose health risks when consumed in drinking water. Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a notable indicator organism and pathogen that is specifically targeted by chlorination processes. The presence of E. coli in water is indicative of fecal contamination, suggesting that other harmful pathogens may also be present.

Chlorination effectively inactivates E. coli due to its ability to penetrate the bacteria's cell walls, disrupt cellular functions, and lead to cell death. This makes it a key focus in ensuring that drinking water is safe for human consumption.

Other pathogens mentioned, such as Salmonella, Cryptosporidium, and Listeria monocytogenes, may also be of concern in water quality, but they do not respond to chlorination in the same effective manner. For instance, while chlorination can reduce the risk of some bacterial pathogens, it is less effective against protozoan cysts like Cryptosporidium, which require different treatment methods for removal. Therefore, the effectiveness of chlorination in targeting E. coli makes it a central concern in drinking water safety practices.