Final answer:
The presence of E.coli in water signifies fecal contamination and the potential presence of pathogens leading to gastrointestinal illness. Certain strains such as E. coli O157:H7 can be particularly harmful, and drinking such water can cause a range of illnesses.
Step-by-step explanation:
The presence of E.coli bacteria in water is an indicator of fecal contamination, which suggests that the water contains harmful pathogens that could cause gastrointestinal illness. E.coli are bacteria found in the intestines of humans and animals, with certain strains, such as E. coli O157:H7, being capable of causing severe illness.
When E.coli is detected in drinking water, it means that the water might be contaminated with feces, potentially carrying other fecal-oral transmitted diseases like typhoid, cholera, and diarrhea. Drinking this contaminated water can result in vomiting, diarrhea, and sometimes even more serious health issues.