Can we be certain that the water is clean? Do you have to clean off the spout before you drink? Or maybe you do a sly test to verify that the person before you is up to oral hygiene?
Water fountains are a feature of the cities since they have been placed near temples and consecrated by ancient Greeks to gods and heroes. The Metropolitan Free Drink Fountain Association in London alone dominated Britain in the middle of the 19th century. The technology used to reduce the risk of infectious diseases, including inclined waterjets, filters, and improved maintenance, has improved. Yet drinking water has declined over the past 30 to 40 years because of bottled water sales, local authorities lack of investment and maintenance and health risks. So how can a hygienic experience be best achieved?
On the bugs and buttons of fountains the principal cause of contamination; if you want a desinfectant to clean it, go for the bumps rather than for the sprout.
The risk of getting herpes is almost negligible, but it’s best to take a drink from the flowing jet of water rather than to wrap your lips around the spout for those who feel comfortable with every other public service.
Remember: municipal water sources are highly rare disease outbreaks and tend to be isolated cases of people with impaired immune systems.
