Non-tuberculous mycobacteria in drinking water systems: A review of prevalence data and control means.

Non-tuberculous species of Mycobacterium are commonly found in a large diversity of water environments, and epidemiological studies suggest that natural or drinking waters are the principal sources of human contamination. Controlling non-tuberculous mycobacteria in water systems is therefore important to prevent infection with these micro-organisms. This review article summarizes the information and data published up to now on the factors favoring the presence of these bacteria in natural and artificial water systems, the effectiveness of water treatment means, and based on this information, identifies possible means to control the presence of non-tuberculous mycobacteria in drinking water.