E. coli, short for Escherichia coli, is a type of bacteria commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals. While most strains are harmless and play a vital role in digestion, some pathogenic strains can cause severe foodborne illnesses and are of significant concern in wastewater treatment and public health. The presence of harmful E. coli strains in water sources is a key indicator of fecal contamination, influencing future regulations on water quality and safety.
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