Technology to blast diarrhea-causing bugs out of water systems

Pulsed light technology, a radically new method of ultraviolet disinfection, is an effective way of eradicating a diarrhea-causing parasite from Irish water systems, according to research.

Cryptosporidium, a microscopic organism found in rivers, lakes, and occasionally tap water, is especially dangerous to young children and those with a weak immune system. It is also one of the leading causes of scour in young calves and is highly infectious.

The parasite has been linked to a number of gastrointestinal epidemics throughout the country and, most recently, was detected in the Westport Public Water Supply. A boil notice was issued last month while authorities traced the source of the outbreak.