What are the risks of poisoning related to tap water and the solutions to adopt?

Can tap water, this resource we use every day, really become a poison? In France, dozens of cases of intoxication related to human consumption of contaminated water are reported each year. This highlights an alarming public health issue.

From chlorine to bacteria, through parasites and pesticides, the substances present in water cause serious disorders: simple nausea, persistent stomach aches, or even hospitalizations for abdominal pain or excessive sodium loss. 

Whether you are an adult, a child, or even a young student, the risks are real. With recent studies from ANSES revealing potential dangers, it becomes crucial to understand how water quality can affect your health and that of your loved ones. Do not leave the hygiene of your daily drink to chance.

What are the main causes of water-related intoxication? 

Among the most common are bacterial and viral contamination. Pathogens like E. coli and salmonella hide in your water. These microorganisms cause severe symptoms: vomiting, diarrhea, and more severe complications in young people, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. 

The presence of chemical substances should not be overlooked. Solvents, pesticides, or various toxic products lead to serious health issues: headaches and chronic diseases. 

• Pollution by heavy metals (lead or mercury) is a major concern. 
• These substances accumulate in the body and cause neurological problems, especially in children. 

Finally, even pure water consumed in excess can become dangerous; this is known as hyperhydration. This water intoxication results from an imbalance with the body's sodium. It causes serious, even fatal, signs. 

What to do in case of water intoxication? 

Recognizing the symptoms remains the first step not to be overlooked since you must intervene as quickly as possible. Health professionals monitor persistent vomiting, frequent diarrhea, a general feeling of malaise, as well as headaches. Abdominal pain sometimes indicates water intoxication. 

Example: in 2024, students were poisoned in a holiday center after drinking tap water. The ARS of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes conducted an investigation. It found an insufficient chlorination of the water. 

If you suspect poisoning, stop consuming this water immediately. We advise you to drink filtered water to avoid dehydration. At Weeplow, we also offer a gravity filter that removes more than 99% of bacteria and contaminants. In case of chemical ingestion, taking activated charcoal helps limit the absorption of toxins. 

However, consulting a healthcare professional becomes imperative in certain situations. If symptoms persist or worsen, especially in the case of high fever, blood in vomit or stool, or neurological disorders, it is essential to see a doctor or go to the emergency room. 

Summary of contaminants, symptoms, and recommended treatments. 

Is tap water really dangerous to health? 

The issue of tap water safety in France is raising increasing concerns, especially after recent cases of poisoning. In Bar-sur-Seine, a bacteriological pollution caused severe symptoms in several residents and the intervention of health services. These incidents highlight the vulnerability of our drinking water network. 

They are often caused by substances that pollute the water such as pesticides, residues, medications, industrial solvents… They are invisible to the naked eye, but they have disastrous effects on health. 

Here are the substances most frequently detected in tap water based on the regions of France. The table is based on reports from health agencies.

In the face of these risks, it is necessary to know the safety measures and standards to ensure that tap water remains drinkable. Preventive measures such as chlorination treatment and monitoring are deployed to guarantee safety.

However, even with these precautions, tap water can be dangerous to health and the same can be true for mineral water. Bottles of Perrier, for example, have been destroyed, as tests showed the presence of fecal matter.

How to consume pure water at home? 

Drinking pure water is essential to protect your health and that of your loved ones. Kits help you test the quality, and there is a good chance you will find contaminants like chlorine, bacteria, and heavy materials. Filtering water is an ideal solution to reduce their presence by 99%.

Our gravity filter combined with an activated carbon filter is effective against chlorine, pesticides… It makes all sources drinkable whether it's tap water, rainwater, or stream water… It works without electricity, so you can install it in the kitchen and take it on vacation.

In parallel, we offer you a checklist of good practices to have daily to ensure healthy water.

1. Check for leaks in your pipes, which could lead to water contamination.
2. Clean the taps and aerators to remove limescale and deposits that may accumulate.
3. Purge the pipes with cold water for a few minutes after a period of inactivity.
4. Use a water filter and change the cartridges of your filter to ensure its effectiveness..
5. Check the expiration date of filters to not exceed the indicated lifespan for each filter.
6. Do not store toxic products near wells or outdoor taps.
7. Utilize natural alternatives in your garden to combat pesticide contamination.
8. Cover wells and water tanks to prevent the intrusion of contaminants.
9. Educate your family, all members must know these practices to prevent contamination.

If you have doubts about the quality of tap water, we recommend contacting local authorities: the Regional Health Agency (ARS) in your area or the local water distribution service.

To avoid water poisoning, use safe alternatives like the Weeplow gravity filter which offers a practical and effective solution for purifying water.