Water-Borne Diseases

Water-borne diseases are caused by pathogenic microorganisms that are transmitted through contaminated water. These diseases are a major public health concern in many parts of the world, particularly in areas with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water sources. Some common water-borne diseases include cholera, typhoid, amoebic dysentery, diarrhea, and jaundice. However, not all diseases listed in the options provided are water-borne. Let's analyze each option to determine the correct answer.

a) Typhoid and Malaria:
- Typhoid fever is caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhi, which is primarily transmitted through the consumption of contaminated food and water. It is not considered a water-borne disease.
- Malaria, on the other hand, is a vector-borne disease transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes. It is not related to water contamination.

b) Cholera and Smallpox:
- Cholera is a highly contagious and potentially life-threatening disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It is primarily spread through the ingestion of water or food contaminated with the bacteria. Cholera is indeed a water-borne disease.
- Smallpox, however, is a viral infection transmitted from person to person through respiratory droplets. It is not related to water contamination.

c) Amoebic dysentery and Malaria:
- Amoebic dysentery, also known as amoebiasis, is caused by the protozoan parasite Entamoeba histolytica. It is typically spread through the ingestion of water or food contaminated with the parasite's cysts. Amoebic dysentery is a water-borne disease.
- As mentioned earlier, malaria is transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes and is not related to water contamination.

d) Diarrhea and Jaundice:
- Diarrhea is a condition characterized by loose, watery stools occurring more frequently than usual. It can be caused by various factors, including viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections. Some of these infections can be transmitted through contaminated water, making diarrhea a water-borne disease.
- Jaundice, on the other hand, is not a specific disease but a symptom of an underlying condition. It is characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes due to an accumulation of bilirubin. Jaundice can be caused by various factors, including liver disease, hepatitis, and certain medications. It is not directly related to water contamination.

Conclusion:
Among the given options, the correct answer is option 'd' - Diarrhea and Jaundice. Both diarrhea and jaundice can be caused by water-borne infections, emphasizing the importance of clean and safe water sources in preventing these diseases.

Diarrhea and Jaundice are the two water borne diseases