Hygiene, Inadequate Sanitation and Unsafe Water
More than two billion people do not have access to clean drinking water. Billions of people around the world are drinking water that's grossly contaminated, which leads to a number of health concerns. It is believed that 94 percent of these health issues can be prevented when clean water is available, sanitation is improved, and good hygiene is practiced.
There is a limited amount of water available on earth. The water from the ocean and other bodies of water is evaporated, causing rain clouds to form. Although water is one of the most abundant things on the earth, billions of people do not have access to good quality water. Unsafe water contains microorganisms that can negatively impact one's health.
How Does Water Become Contaminated?
There are many reasons why water can become contaminated. It can naturally occur due to natural runoff following a rain or it can become contaminated due to untreated sewage, and animals. Additionally, if water needs to be carried for a distant well, the citizen can accidentally contaminate the water if their jug is dirty or if flies or dust is allowed to enter the jug. Finally, if a dirty cup is used or unclean hands come in contact with the water, it can become contaminated.
How Does Unsafe Water Affect People?
If the water contains a large number of microorganisms, it can overwhelm the immune system and result in disease and even death. If the immune system is already comprised due to illness or age (young children and the elderly), the risk of experiencing a waterborne illness increases. Therefore, it is essential that all people be provided with clean drinking water that is free of any disease or illness-causing pathogens.
What Are the Symptoms of Waterborne Illnesses?
Waterborne illnesses often affect the gastrointestinal system; however, it can also affect other systems in the body. When the microorganisms found in unclean water enter the body, people may experience the following symptoms:
Diarrhea – Watery stools can lead to dehydration where the sufferer loses the liquids and salts needed to keep the body hydrated.
Malnutrition – The diarrhea and vomiting caused by waterborne illnesses can lead to malnutrition.
Abdominal Pain and Cramping – When these microorganisms attack the gastrointestinal tract, abdominal pain and cramping can occur.
Liver Damage – Certain microorganisms found in unclean water can damage the liver. This coupled with severe dehydration and vomiting can cause fluids to be lost quickly and result in shock or death.
How to Prevent Waterborne Illnesses
Waterborne illnesses can be prevented by ensuring that the drinking water used by a village has been properly treated. In addition to this, education on proper sanitation and good hygiene practices can help to prevent many infections from occurring. Finally, because certain vector diseases like malaria can be transmitted by mosquitoes, vector control methods must be used. Mosquitoes breed in standing water. Removing standing water near a house and using netting can help reduce the risk of contracting a water vector disease.
Technology Can Save Lives
There are several technologies that can be used to save lives including:
Chlorination through liquid or tablet form. Chlorine that is added to water can decimate 99.99 percent of viruses and bacteria within an hour.
Solar disinfection is another option. Water can be placed in plastic bottles and placed in direct sunlight for at least six hours. The combination of UV rays and heat will inactivate any pathogens in the water.
Water filtration systems use filters to trap and remove bacteria as well as other solids from water. To provide villagers with clean and safe drinking water.
Disinfection systems that coagulate sediments can clear murky water. Once the sediments are removed, the water can be disinfected using a chlorine solution.
Boiling water kills disease-causing microorganisms. The water should be brought to a rolling boil and then allowed to cool before use.
No matter which methods are used to clean water, it is imperative that water be handled and stored with safety in mind. This means that all collection containers and hands should be thoroughly washed. Water that will be stored should remain covered to prevent dirt and insects from entering the water.