Did you know that water can be a gateway to various diseases? The so-called waterborne diseases are those transmitted directly or indirectly by pathogenic microorganisms that have their origin, development or reproduction related to water.
These diseases can be transmitted from the consumption of untreated or contaminated water, exposure to open sewage and stagnant water, in addition to the lack of personal hygiene.
The main waterborne diseases are giardiasis, cryptosporidiasis, amoebiasis, gastroenteritis, typhoid and paratyphoid fever, infectious hepatitis and cholera. All of these are serious illnesses that can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms and, in some cases, even lead to death.
Indirectly, water is also linked to the transmission of worms, such as ascariasis, schistosomiasis and taeniasis. It is also related to dengue and yellow fever, transmitted by the Aedes Aegypti mosquito – which develops in stagnant water sources on land and homes.
The most efficient way to avoid waterborne diseases is through the consumption of potable water, good hygiene practices and care for our surroundings, avoiding stagnant water and incorrectly discarded waste. The lack of access to basic sanitation also contributes to the transmission and spread of these diseases. Check out our tips to protect yourself!
Regularly exterminate and control pests in your home to prevent proliferation.
Especially in summer, avoid the accumulation of water in tires, plant pots and other places to prevent the reproduction of mosquitoes such as Aedes Aegypt, which transmits yellow fever and dengue, diseases that can even lead to death.
Proper hygiene prevents a number of ills to our health. Therefore, wash your hands very well after using the toilet and before having contact with food – diseases such as hepatitis A can be transmitted this way.
Proper hygiene of food is also very important, so before consuming fruits and vegetables, soak them in a solution of water with chlorine or vinegar. Fresh food can be contaminated with worm eggs and gastrointestinal tract parasites.
Drink clean water! To avoid various types of disease such as hepatitis, salmonella, gastrointestinal infections, among others, consume mineral or filtered water. If you don't have access to clean water, use water purifiers.
Contaminated water can be a gateway to amebiasis, giardiasis and cholera, among other diseases. To prevent microorganisms from proliferating and contaminating the soil and water, dispose of waste in appropriate containers and in the correct place, away from rivers and springs.
