Waterborne Diseases | Civil Engineering Optional Notes for UPSC PDF Download

Introduction

Despite being essential to life, contaminated water can serve as a gateway for a variety of illnesses. When water or food is contaminated with pathogens—which include a variety of bacteria, viruses, and parasites—waterborne disorders result. Maintaining public health norms necessitates a thorough understanding of these diseases and the application of preventive measures.

Common Waterborne Diseases

1. Typhoid: Typhoid fever, propagated via contaminated sustenance and water, flourishes in locales bereft of sanitized water provisions. Its profoundly contagious nature underscores the significance of stringent hygiene practices and the widespread distribution of vaccines to thwart its proliferation.
2. Cholera: Prevalent in rural settings marked by deficient sanitation infrastructure, cholera incites acute dehydration and copious diarrhoea, often culminating in fatality. Its rampant dissemination through polluted water reservoirs accentuates the exigency for enhanced sanitation protocols and potable water access.
3. Dysentery: Dysentery, instigated by bacterial or amoebic agents, induces intestinal inflammation and profuse haemorrhagic diarrhoea, primarily disseminated through tainted comestibles and potables. The imperative for stringent hygienic measures becomes apparent in averting its transmission.
4. Hepatitis A: Transmitted via contaminated edibles, potables, or close interpersonal contact, hepatitis A poses a substantial health risk, particularly in locales characterized by inadequate sanitation infrastructure. Manifesting symptoms such as jaundice and debilitating fatigue, it accentuates the imperative for meticulous hygiene observance.
5. Giardia: Giardiasis, propagated through contaminated water sources, food items, or direct human contact, instigates gastrointestinal discomfort and earns the colloquial moniker "beaver fever." Preventative measures necessitate stringent water purification protocols and the adherence to scrupulous hygiene standards.

Causes of Waterborne Diseases

• Pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and parasites spread through polluted water or feces.
• Lack of proper sanitation and hygiene practices contribute to disease transmission.

Symptoms of Waterborne Diseases

• Symptoms vary but often include fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and dehydration.
• Specific symptoms outlined for Typhoid, Cholera, Dysentery, Hepatitis A, and Giardia.

Treatment of Waterborne Diseases

• Treatment involves hydration, antibiotics for bacterial infections, and anti-parasite medications.
• Adequate rest and avoiding exhaustion aid in recovery.

Prevention of Waterborne Diseases

• Emphasize personal hygiene, including hand washing before eating.
• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly, consider vaccination for diseases like hepatitis and typhoid.
• Avoid drinking tap water directly and consuming undercooked/raw foods.
• Prevention is crucial due to the potentially fatal consequences of waterborne diseases.

Effects of Waterborne Diseases

• Polluted water contains harmful pathogens leading to various illnesses.
• Risks are higher in rural and impoverished areas due to poor hygiene and sanitation.
• Children, elderly, and immunocompromised individuals are particularly vulnerable.
• Access to clean water is vital, but proper precautions and vaccination are essential for prevention.