Waterborne Diseases You Must Know: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Sep 10, 2025
Clean water is the foundation of good health. Yet, millions of people across the world still suffer from illnesses caused by contaminated water. These illnesses, known as waterborne diseases, can affect anyone, especially during the monsoon season when water contamination is common.
In this blog, we will explore the most common waterborne diseases, their causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention tips, in simple and easy-to-understand language.
What Are Waterborne Diseases?
Waterborne diseases are illnesses that spread through contaminated water or food prepared with contaminated water. Germs such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites thrive in unsafe water and can cause serious infections if consumed.
Some of the most common waterborne diseases include:
- Cholera
- Typhoid fever
- Dysentery
- Diarrhea
- Hepatitis A
- Giardiasis
- Amoebiasis
- Leptospirosis
- Polio
Causes of Waterborne Diseases
Waterborne diseases usually spread due to:
- Drinking contaminated water from lakes, rivers, or unsafe storage.
- Poor sanitation and hygiene.
- Consuming food washed or cooked with contaminated water.
- Lack of proper water treatment or purification.
- Flooding or monsoon waterlogging, which mixes sewage with drinking water.
Symptoms of Waterborne Diseases
While symptoms vary depending on the infection, the most common include:
- Frequent diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain and cramps
- Fever and fatigue
- Dehydration
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin in Hepatitis A)
- Blood or mucus in stool (in dysentery and amoebiasis)
If you or your family members notice these signs, it is important to seek medical help immediately.
Treatment of Waterborne Diseases
Treatment depends on the type and severity of infection:
- Rehydration: Oral rehydration solution (ORS) or IV fluids for dehydration.
- Antibiotics/antivirals: Prescribed for bacterial or viral infections such as typhoid or hepatitis.
- Antiparasitic drugs: For diseases like giardiasis and amoebiasis.
- Rest and diet: Light, easily digestible food to restore energy.
Self-medication is not advised. Always consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Prevention of Waterborne Diseases
The good news is that most waterborne diseases are preventable with simple hygiene and lifestyle practices:
- Drink boiled or filtered water only.
- Wash hands with soap before meals and after using the toilet.
- Avoid eating roadside or uncovered food during monsoon.
- Use chlorination or purification tablets in emergency situations.
- Maintain clean water storage containers.
- Get vaccinated for diseases like Hepatitis A and Typhoid.
Key Facts from Popular Organizations
- According to the World Health Organization (WHO), at least 2 billion people globally use drinking water contaminated with feces.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that diarrheal diseases are the second leading cause of death among children under 5 years.
- In India, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare highlights that waterborne diseases increase significantly during the monsoon season.
- UNICEF emphasizes that safe drinking water and proper sanitation could prevent up to 90% of waterborne illnesses in children.
FAQs on Waterborne Diseases
What are the most common waterborne diseases in India?
Cholera, typhoid, dysentery, diarrhea, hepatitis A, and amoebiasis are the most common.
How do waterborne diseases spread?
They spread mainly through contaminated water and food, poor hygiene, and unsafe sanitation.
What are the first signs of a waterborne infection?
Frequent loose stools, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and weakness are early signs.
Which waterborne disease causes jaundice?
Hepatitis A is a waterborne disease that commonly causes jaundice.
How can I prevent waterborne diseases at home?
Always drink boiled or filtered water, wash hands, and store water in clean containers.
Can children get waterborne diseases easily?
Yes, children are more vulnerable because their immunity is lower, especially under age 5.
What to eat if I have diarrhea from contaminated water?
Eat soft, light foods like khichdi, bananas, and curd; avoid oily and spicy foods.
Are waterborne diseases dangerous?
Yes, if untreated, they can cause dehydration, organ damage, and even death in severe cases.
Is vaccination available for waterborne diseases?
Yes, vaccines are available for typhoid, polio, and hepatitis A.
What is the safest way to purify water quickly?
Boiling water for at least 10 minutes is the simplest and most effective way.
Final Thoughts
Waterborne diseases are a serious public health concern, but with awareness, hygiene, and safe water practices, they are entirely preventable. Always ensure your drinking water is safe, get vaccinated where possible, and seek medical care immediately if symptoms appear.
Staying informed is the first step to staying safe. Protect your family by making clean water a priority.
