Water Born Disease

Waterborne diseases are such diseases that are caused by drinking water contaminated with pathogenic microorganisms. In developing countries, majority of the diseases are caused due to waterborne problems. Often lack of access to hygienic water, poor sanitation and rise in insect population breeding in on water are considered as the leading causes of waterborne diseases. According to CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) diarrhea is responsible for 1.5 million deaths annually, worldwide.

Top 5 Waterborne Diseases
Listed below are top 5 waterborne diseases:
Giardiasis: It is a type of diarrhea caused by Giardia intestinalis. Normally, the infection develops 1-2 weeks after exposure. The parasite can live in the intestine of infected person and is passed outside the body through feces. Once outside, the parasite can survive in the environment for months. Giardiasis can cause severe abdominal cramps, diarrhea, nausea, greasy stool, flatulence or gas, etc.
Amoebiasis: A type of waterborne disease caused by protozoa called Entamoeba histolytica. Normally poor sewage and untreated drinking water are the main causes of amoebiasis. This can cause extreme abdominal discomfort, loose stools, bloating, abdominal pain and weight loss. Rarely, the protozoa can invade the liver and form liver abscess.
Cryptosporidiosis: Like amoebiasis, cryptosporidiosis is also a type of diarrheal disease. It is caused by tiny parasites called Cryptosporidium parvum. Because the parasite is resistant to chlorine, one can even become infected by drinking from water filters. Cryptosporidiosis can cause mild fever, weight loss, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, etc.
Cholera: This virulent intestinal infection is caused by ingesting food or water contaminated with Vibro cholerae. The bacteria has short incubation period and is marked by sudden onset of acute diarrhea which may lead to excessive dehydration, kidney failure and finally, even, death. According to cholera statistics of...