This document should only serve as a guide for individuals intending to use untreated or poorly treated water as a drinking water source. This document may also aid travelers and backcountry water users in researching drinking water treatment methods. Except for boiling, few of the water treatment methods are 100% effective in removing all pathogens. REMEMBER: If boiling water is not a feasible option, the most effective pathogen reduction method in untreated or poorly treated drinking water is a combination treatment, using the appropriate filtration and disinfection methods.

Stephen B. Thacker CDC Library collection