polluted water
Dirty polluted water is ever present in countries that have poor hygiene and insufficient sanitation. International travelers who visit developing countries or adventure seekers, who often rely on surface water in any country, including the United States and European countries, are at risk from contracting waterborne diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, typhoid and amoebiasis. Worldwide, especially in developing countries, the absence of inadequate sanitation and the pressing issues like over-population and uncontrolled pollution, means that water may be infected with human waste and even urban tap water may become contaminated even with the presence of proper water treatment systems. Primarily humans, but also animals, are the source of microorganisms that contaminate water sources and cause intestinal infections.
Waterborne pathogens can include everything from bacteria, viruses, protozoa, parasites to micro-organisms that can cause traveler’s diarrhea. Diarrhea is the most frequent public health problem directly connected to water and sanitation. Although majority of the most common infections contracted by travelers can also be transmitted by food and through recreational water exposure via accidental water ingestion. The basic act of proper hand-washing with plain soap and water is often sufficient enough to cut diarrhea by one-third. It is the key to thwarting the waterborne diseases in the bud aside from providing adequate sanitation facilities.
tap water: is it safe to drink?
Bottled drinking water has become the most suitable solution for most travelers. But oftentimes, bottled water may be not better to tap water. It is generally advised that international travelers, especially long-staying travelers, should adapt simple methods to guarantee safe drinking water. One cannot drink bottled water all the time because of environmental problem it presents Disinfection and filtration can remove or destroy harmful micro-organisms. These methods aim to reduce the risk of waterborne diseases that may cause gastrointestinal infections and diarrhea. However, these water treatment methods may not be enough to kill some parasitic viruses and organisms. Children, elderly and those with weak immune system are most likely to be infected or likely to develop waterborne related diseases and infections. It is important to take better care of your health and avoid contaminated surface water as much as possible.
Swimming and other water sports are likely the culprits for people who seem otherwise careful about what they eat or drink. Swimmers and water-sports enthusiasts are generally more exposed to waterborne pathogens when they mistakenly ingest water through the mouth, eyes, ears or nose. You can also catch a disease or some infections by merely walking in polluted water especially if you have an open wound.
Water is one of the basics of life and health. We can live for several days and even weeks without food but we may die in a matter of days without water. Although water may be the cause of some reported deaths, we still can’t discount the facts of its importance. In places where you suspect contamination, these safety measures are advised:
- Don’t brush teeth with regular tap water
- Use ice made with safe filtered water
- Drink bottled water if you’re not sure of the water’s safety
- Consult a doctor if you have symptoms of the diseases aforementioned.
Katadyn Bottle 0.75L Water Filter
