Yet half the rural population relies on these wells as a source of drinking-water. Even in countries where most residents are connected to a water supply network, there may be frequent interruptions in supply. In southern Russia, water may be available for only a few hours a day. In Romania, some supply systems do not function for more than 12 hours a day. Apart from contamination with microbes and viruses, water may also be polluted with lead, arsenic, fluorides or nitrates.
Agriculture also affects water quality through run-off containing pesticides and fertilizers.
It is high time countries committed themselves to protecting the health of their inhabitants by working together with all the sectors. Safe water is one of the vital sources of good health, and intersectoral collaboration and partnership is essential, both within and among European Member States. This will be a prerequisite for sustainable development and harmonization in the European Region and this protocol will be a helpful tool for achieving health for all in the 21 st century. Its ultimate aim is to reduce, control and prevent water-related disease.