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6 Most Common Water Borne Diseases

6 Most Common Water Borne Diseases

This blog will tell about diseases that are water-borne. This will help you be aware of the monsoon season, causes, symptoms, prevention, and tips to remain healthy and safe.

The monsoon season no doubt provides relief from heat and summer but it also increases water-borne diseases risk. The rainwater forms a breeding ground for pathogens. This leads to certain health hazards. 

6 Most Common Water Borne Diseases

Most Common Water Borne Diseases

Cholera

It is a water-borne disease that is highly contagious. It is caused by Vibrio cholerae bacteria. It rapidly spreads via contaminated water or food. Cholera symptoms include watery diarrhoea, dehydration and vomiting. Severe cases of cholera, life-threatening situations can happen.

Prevention: It is important to drink safe, purified and boiled water. Avoid eating raw and undercooked seafood. Practice hygiene habits like handwashing with clean water and soap.

Typhoid

Salmonella typhi causes typhoid. It is transmitted by contaminated water and food. It may cause symptoms like abdominal pain, high fever, weakness and headache. Some severe complications cn happen if it is not treated timely.

Prevention: Take hygiene and sanitation measures including. Cook your food properly. Avoid consuming fast food from the street during monsoon season especially.

Hepatitis A

It is a viral infection. It affects the liver and can spread via contaminated food and water. The symptoms can be fatigue, jaundice, loss of appetite and nausea. Most Hepatitis A cases resolve by itself, it can become severe in children and older adults.

Prevention: Vaccination helps prevent this disease. Practice personal hygiene practice, including washing hands, and avoiding eating raw and undercooked food.

Leptospirosis

Leptospira bacteria causes this disease. It is present in water that is contaminated with animal urine. During monsoon season, there is a higher risk of getting exposed to this bacteria, especially in floodwater areas or in water-related activities.

Prevention: Avoid getting contaminated water contact. Wear protective clothing and footwear if you have to walk through floodwaters. Keep surroundings clean and rodent infestations free.

Diarrheal Diseases

Various pathogens like rotavirus and Escherichia coli (E. coli) can cause diarrheal diseases (Acute) during monsoon season. Infections can cause dehydration and can be dangerous for children especially.

Prevention: Maintain good hygiene practices, including regular handwashing. Drink safe, purified or boiled water, and avoid eating uncooked and raw.

Malaria

It spreads during monsoon season although it is not a water-borne disease. It spreads mosquito breeding sites increase due to standing water. Mosquitoes carry malaria parasites causing chills, fever, and flu-like symptoms.

Prevention: While sleeping use mosquito nets, wear clothes with long-sleeves, and use repellents to protect from mosquito bites. Ensure appropriate drainage for eliminating stagnant water for eliminating sites of mosquito breeding.

Essential Tips for Staying Safe During Monsoon

  • Boil and purify drinking water to eliminate water-borne pathogens.
  • Ensure you handle food properly while cooking and avoid eating undercooked or raw food items.
  • Practice hand hygiene, and wash hands frequently especially before eating or after touching your face.
  • Avoid going to areas having stagnant water.
  • Use mosquito repellents
  • Keep surroundings clean
  • Stay informed on health advisories 
  • Seek attention if you have any symptoms of illness.

Conclusion

Monsoon season is the season to remain vigilant, especially for water-borne diseases. Take necessary preventive measures to protect your loved ones and yourself. Enjoy monsoon by following hygiene practices, consuming safe food and water, and by avoiding contaminated water exposure. Seeking timely medicine is necessary if you are having any symptoms indicating water-borne illnesses.