Diseases that spread because of drinking polluted water or eating food prepared with polluted water are called waterborne infectious diseases. Water pollution may be due to toxins or microorganisms. Toxins are arsenic, mercury, calcium, lead and many organic chemicals. Microorganisms are viruses, bacteria, protozoa and worms.
lack of proper sanitation facilities is the main cause of rapidly spreading waterborne diseases. A few common diseases are mentioned here:
(i) Diarrheal diseases
Intestinal diseases, such as cholera, that may cause dangerous dehydration. Diarrhea may be caused by viruses, bacteria or parasites.
(ii) Dysentery
Dysentery is an intestinal disease which is typically caused by certain bacteria or parasites. It is characterized by severe diarrhea that may be accompanied by blood or mucous.
(iii) Cholera
Cholera is an acute infection caused by the bacteria Vibrios cholera, which may be found in water contaminated by human faeces. Cholera causes severe diarrhea and can be fatal.
(iv) Cryptosporidium
Waterborne microorganism (protozoa) that causes gastrointestinal illness (cryptosporidiosis) including diarrhea and vomiting. These tiny pathogens are found in surface water sources like reservoirs, lakes and rivers.
(v) Fluorosis
Fluorosis is a disease caused by the consumption of excess fluoride. Fluorosis can cause bones and teeth damage.
(vi) Hepatitis
It is liver inflammation commonly caused by one of five viruses called hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. Hepatitis A and E can be transmitted by contaminated water.