The role of biofilm in the development and dissemination of ubiquitous pathogens in drinking water distribution systems: an overview of surveillance, outbreaks, and prevention

A variety of pathogenic microorganisms can survive in the drinking water distribution systems (DWDS) by forming stable biofilms and, thus, continually disseminating their population through the system's dynamic water bodies. The ingestion of the pathogen-contaminated water could trigger a broad spectrum of illnesses and well-being-related obstacles. These waterborne diseases are a significant concern for babies, pregnant women, and significantly low-immune individuals. This review highlights the recent advances in understanding the microbiological aspects of drinking water quality, biofilm formation and its dynamics, health issues caused by the emerging microbes in biofilm, and approaches for biofilm investigation its prevention and suppression in DWDS.