Water-Borne diseases

Water-Borne diseases :-

Water borne or faecal-oral diseases are caused by micro-organisms present in human and animal waste , when they enter human body via mouth. So it can be due to contaminated water, or through dirty hands, clothes (or towels) ,food or materials or things used for cooking (e.g. unclean utensils or plates ) , eating or drinking.

Rarely, but they can also enter human vody through eyes, nose or open wounds. Even uncovered food or drinking water can cause it. Contaminated soil, or by insects (like flies) and animals or improper sewage system. These diseases are infectious , meaning they can spread from person to person. Proper hygiene and sanitation can stop them.

Diseases common in Nepal:-

In Nepal the most common water borne disease include

1. Typhoid fever
2. Giardia
3. Dysentery
4. Cholera
5. Diarrhoea
6. Hepatitis
7. Polio
8. Worms

Hazards:-

1. Lowers body resistance to infection and disease.
2. Causes fatal ilnesses.
3. Lowers body's intake of nourishment causing Malnutrition.
4. Increases Health expenditure.
5. Hampers individual and social education and development.

Prevention:-

1. improving quality of water
2. water chlorination
3. improving access to clean water and safe sanitation
4. promoting hygiene education
5. exclusive breast-feeding
6. improved weaning practices
7. immunizing all children; especially against measles
8. proper maintainence of water pumps and wells
9. proper use latrines
10. proper/sanitary disposal of human and animal waste
11. keeping food and water clean by covering and using clean hands and utensils
12. washing hands with soap (the baby's as well) before touching food

Source :- http://www.irc.nl/page/8904