Major Waterborne Diseases

Every year, water-related diseases affect millions of people, especially those living without getting access to safe and hygienic water. The article lists out the five major waterborne diseases that plague the world.

1. Cholera

Cholera is commonly found in marginalized villages where poverty and poor sanitation are prevalent. The disease is spread through unhygienic water and causes dehydration and diarrhea. Cholera can be fatal within days or even hours of exposure to the bacteria, but only 1 in 10 people develop life-threatening symptoms. Symptoms of Cholera include vomiting, rapid heart rate, loss of skin elasticity and dry mouth.

2. Typhoid Fever

Typhoid fever is rampant in deplorable parts of developing nations; it’s estimated that up to 20 million people worldwide suffer from the disease every year. This contagious disease is spread through contaminated food, unhygienic water, and poor sanitation. Symptoms include poor appetite; abdominal pain and headaches.

3. Dysentery

Dysentery is a waterborne disease that causes severe diarrhea as well as blood or mucus in the stool. Dysentery is a good reason to always wash your hands, as the disease is spread mainly through poor hygiene. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites in unsafe food and water and by people coming in contact with fecal matter. Symptoms of dysentery include diarrhea, fever, nausea, and vomiting dehydration.

4. Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a liver infection caused by consuming contaminated food and water or by coming in close contact with someone who is diagnosed with the infection. People who travel to developing countries often or work in rural communities with poor sanitation and hygiene management have the chances are likely to be exposed to the disease. Symptoms include fatigue, sudden nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

5. Giardia

Giardia is a waterborne disease spread through contaminated water from ponds and streams, but it can also be found in a town’s water supply, swimming pools, etc. The infection is caused by a parasite and typically clears up after a few weeks. However, it’s possible for those who have been exposed to experience intestinal problems in the coming years. Symptoms include cramps and bloating, diarrhea, nausea, weight loss.