Water is the very essence of life. Every day, we depend on water for cooking, drinking, and cleaning. A refreshing cold glass of water on a sweaty summer day feels like a gift. But what if something as essential as water could silently make us sick? Across India, especially during the summer season, uneven sanitation amplifies risks of waterborne diseases like typhoid, cholera, and hepatitis, which affect thousands if not millions every year.
These diseases can wreak havoc on your digestive system, cause severe dehydration, and in some cases, lead to life-threatening complications if left untreated. The good news is that, despite their significant risk, most waterborne infections are preventable. Stay tuned as we explore the most common waterborne diseases, how they spread, and—most importantly—what you can do to stay safe.
Protect your family from waterborne diseases – Get the best water purifier today!
Waterborne Diseases: What Are They?
As per the World Health Organisation (WHO), water-borne diseases affect more than 1.8 million people yearly worldwide, some of which are fatal.
Waterborne diseases are caused by harmful microorganisms that spread through polluted water. These infections spread when individuals consume polluted water, make meals, and wash their clothing, among other things. Adequate water treatment facilities are lacking in many developing countries, especially in rural regions. In certain places, water is so limited that residents lack enough money or time to invest in water purifiers or other water treatment methods.
Why are More Common in Summer?
The summer season pretty much makes up the ideal conditions for the spread of germs, viruses, and parasites. The high temperatures promote the growth of bacteria in stagnant water and accelerate food degradation. Furthermore, unreliable water supply and inadequate sanitation in certain places cause people to rely on risky water sources. This raises the possibility of contamination and the spread of illness. During this season, contaminated drinking water, inadequately cleaned fruits and vegetables, and unsanitary food all have the potential to spread diseases.
Common Types of Waterborne Diseases
Typhoid fever
Typhoid fever is caused by the Salmonella typhi bacterium and is contracted by contaminated water. Patients usually have prolonged fever, lack of appetite, nausea, headaches, constipation, and weight loss. Typhoid must be treated right away in order to cure the patient and stop the disease from spreading.
Cholera
Vibrio cholerae, a bacterium found in contaminated food and water, is chiefly responsible for the disease. Some of the symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal cramping. Cholera typically affects children, but it can sometimes affect adults. Among several water-borne infections, it has an extremely high mortality rate. People who have weakened immunity, such as those suffering from malnutrition or HIV infection, are at a higher risk of dying from bacterial infection.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a viral infection that damages the liver and is transmitted by contaminated water and food. Symptoms of this illness can include jaundice, exhaustion, nausea, and lack of appetite. Even while most cases of Hepatitis A infections go away on their own, elderly persons and children have the risk of severe symptoms.
Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is caused by the Leptospira bacterium found in water polluted with animal urine. The danger of being exposed to this bacteria rises during the monsoon season, particularly while walking through floodwaters or engaging in water-related activities.
Gut Infections
Summertime brings a higher risk of dysentery and other gastrointestinal illnesses, particularly in places with inadequate sanitation. The symptoms of these illnesses include fever, nausea, vomiting, cramping in the abdomen, and diarrhea, which can occasionally be bloody. Contaminated water and food serve as breeding grounds for these pathogens, which thrive in hot and humid conditions.
How To Keep Waterborne Diseases At Bay?
Drink Safe Water
Make sure the water you consume is pure and safe to drink. For drinking, use boiling or treated water, particularly if you’re not sure how good it is. To get rid of dangerous germs and viruses, think about installing a water filter or purifier at home.
Guard your loved ones with every sip – Upgrade to the best water purifier!
Ensure Food Safety
Before consuming or preparing fruits and vegetables, properly wash them in clean water. Avoid eating raw or undercooked fish because it may contain parasites or waterborne germs, especially if it comes from a dubious source.
Properly Store Water
Even clean water could turn harmful if not stored correctly. To reduce the danger of recontamination at home, keep drinking water in closed, clean containers and avoid dipping hands or dirty utensils into it.
Practice Adequate Hand Hygiene
One of the easiest but most efficient strategies to stop the spread of waterborne illnesses in your home or community is to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the toilet.
Vaccination
Vaccines can protect against several waterborne infections, such as cholera and typhoid fever. Before visiting locations with recognized waterborne illness hazards, talk to your doctor about recommended vaccines.
Final Thoughts
Water is life only if it is clean and safe. In summer, waterborne disease risk increases, but with a few precautions, you can lower your risk of falling ill. Clean water, hygiene, and awareness are your greatest shields. If you or a family member is feeling symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, or dehydration, seek advice from a healthcare provider right away. Proper diagnosis and treatment can help avoid complications and promote rapid recovery.
FAQs
1-What are waterborne diseases and how do they spread?
Waterborne diseases are illnesses caused by consuming or coming into contact with contaminated water. They spread through drinking unsafe water, eating food washed in such water, or poor hygiene practices, especially in summer when microbes thrive.
2-Why are waterborne diseases more common during the summer season?
High temperatures in summer promote the rapid growth of bacteria, viruses, and parasites in water and food. Water scarcity and poor storage habits also increase the risk of contamination and infection.
3- What are the early signs of a waterborne illness?
Symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, stomach cramps, fever, and fatigue are common early signs. In some cases, jaundice or bloody stools may occur, depending on the type of infection.
4-Can waterborne diseases be prevented with home water filters?
Yes. Using a certified water purifier at home can help remove harmful microbes and impurities. Regular maintenance is essential to ensure continued protection from contaminants.
5-When should I see a doctor for a suspected waterborne infection?
If symptoms like diarrhea persist for more than a day, or if there’s fever, dehydration, or blood in the stools, it’s best to consult a doctor promptly for diagnosis and treatment.
6-What are the most common waterborne diseases in summer?
Cholera, typhoid, hepatitis A and E, dysentery, and giardiasis are frequently seen during summer due to contaminated water and poor hygiene practices.
7-Are children more vulnerable to these diseases?
Yes. Children are more prone to dehydration and complications, especially with diarrhea. Safe drinking water and hygiene are crucial to protect them.
(The article is written by Ehsan Ur Rahman Siddiqui, Team Lead, and reviewed by Monalisa Deka, Senior Health Content Editor)
Recommended Reads
Top 10 Foods To Avoid Before Taking A Flight
7 Fish Oil Benefits For Heart Health