Surprisingly running water hinders the development of many bacteria and contaminants that are usually found in standing water. It’s why rivers are at least ostensibly clean compared to lakes or swamps, and why most Romans didn’t die by lead poisoning despite using lead pipes in their aqueducts.
Still all water meant for consumption goes through treatment plants and has additives put in to prevent bacterial growth. Also it’s important to note that while running water is safer than standing water that doesn’t mean that running water can’t be contaminated.
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