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Water borne diseases
What are water borne diseases? Describe.
How can it be checked?
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1 Reply
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Waterborne diseases are illnesses caused by microorganisms that are transmitted through contaminated water. These diseases can occur when water sources, such as rivers, lakes, or reservoirs, become contaminated with human or animal feces containing pathogenic bacteria, viruses, parasites, or other harmful microorganisms. When people consume or come into contact with this contaminated water, they can become infected and develop waterborne diseases.
There are several common waterborne diseases, including:
1. Cholera: Cholera is caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae and leads to severe diarrhea and dehydration. It can spread rapidly in areas with poor sanitation and contaminated water supplies.
2. Typhoid fever: Typhoid fever is caused by the bacterium Salmonella enterica serotype Typhi. It causes high fever, headache, stomach pain, and diarrhea. It can be contracted by consuming food or water contaminated with the bacterium.
3. Hepatitis A: Hepatitis A is a viral infection that affects the liver. It is primarily transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, nausea, and jaundice.
4. Dysentery: Dysentery is an infection of the intestines that causes severe diarrhea with blood or mucus. It is commonly caused by the bacterium Shigella or the parasite Entamoeba histolytica.
5. Cryptosporidiosis: Cryptosporidiosis is caused by the protozoan parasite Cryptosporidium. It leads to diarrhea, stomach cramps, and fever. It can be transmitted through contaminated water or food, or through contact with infected individuals or animals.
To check waterborne diseases and ensure the safety of water sources, several measures can be taken:
1. Water treatment: Implementing effective water treatment processes, such as filtration, disinfection (e.g., chlorination), and sedimentation, can remove or kill harmful microorganisms in water.
2. Sanitation: Promoting proper sanitation practices, including the construction and maintenance of sanitary toilets, can prevent contamination of water sources with fecal matter.
3. Water quality monitoring: Regular monitoring of water quality, including testing for microbial contaminants, can help identify potential risks and take appropriate actions to ensure safe water.
4. Public education: Educating the public about the importance of clean water, proper hygiene practices, and the prevention of water contamination can help reduce the incidence of waterborne diseases.
5. Improved infrastructure: Developing and maintaining adequate water supply and sanitation infrastructure, such as piped water systems and sewage treatment plants, can significantly reduce the risk of waterborne diseases.
6. Water source protection: Protecting water sources from pollution, such as agricultural runoff or industrial discharge, can help maintain the cleanliness and safety of water supplies.
By implementing these measures, communities, and authorities can work together to minimize the risk of waterborne diseases and safeguard the health of individuals.
