E. Coli in the water: Protect your livestock

Drinking water is a source of infectious diseases on livestock farms more often than thought, including Coli infections. An E. Coli infection is a major risk because it has a significant impact. Animal welfare suffers and this causes lower production and higher (veterinary) costs. Prevention is better than cure!

E. Coli bacteria

The E. Coli bacteria, written out in full as Escherichia Coli, is also popularly known as the poop bacteria. These bacteria live in the intestines of humans and animals. They have one function there: they provide protection against other harmful bacteria. The crazy part is that this bacteria is not just a good influence. In fact, E. Coli can also have a negative impact on your animals' health by causing fever and pain. The bacteria can be found in the biofilm of pipes or drinking troughs and can therefore spread quickly.

What is biofilm?

Biofilm is a slimy film of bacteria, fungi and nutrients. As time goes on, it builds up and settles on surfaces where it is moist. Anywhere that is wet for long periods of time, where water is stored or flows through, you can encounter biofilm. This is often difficult to deal with because this slimy layer is often resistant to a variety of agents. Potential pathogens such as E. Coli develop because of this and get into the water. 

E. Coli in the water

We do not often find the E. Coli bacteria in water, yet it does occur occasionally. This bacterium feels at home in biofilm, and that is where the danger of this situation lies. Contamination in water often comes from stagnant water, such as in a pipe. This then creates a source for pathogens. Antibiotics are used in animal husbandry, but if the drinking water becomes contaminated and all animals continue to drink from contaminated nipples or troughs, the source of contamination will remain. Less antibiotics will be needed if this source is addressed.

How do I know if there is E. Coli in the water?

E. Coli in the water can be tested by taking a water sample at the drinking point. By taking water, it can be checked for bacteria, in this case Escherichia Coli. Paying attention to the drinking water makes you as a livestock farmer more aware of the health of your animals. The water may be clear, but you don't know if it is clean.

The results of a table above are from a cattle farm that was in conflict with E. coli bacteria. A significant difference can be seen after about 5 weeks. The Watter system is a good solution for the E. coli in the water.

E. Coli disappears with the Watter system

For prevention of E. Coli bacteria, Watter has a great solution. Our disinfection ensures that stubborn bacteria such as E. Coli disappear. This requires only water, salt and electricity. In the disinfectant, HOCl is the most effective substance. Thus, Watter disinfects in a sustainable way without harmful chemicals and is safe for humans, animals and the environment.