waterborne

Waterborne refers to illnesses, contaminants, or exposures arising from water that has become contaminated with disease-causing organisms or chemicals. It is a term used in public health, water supply management, and environmental science to describe transmission through drinking water, recreational water, or aquatic food chains.

Pathogens frequently involved include bacteria such as Vibrio cholerae and Salmonella, viruses such as norovirus and hepatitis A, and protozoa such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium. Contamination often results from fecal pollution, inadequate sanitation, or runoff carrying pathogens or chemicals. Ingesting contaminated water or water-based exposures can cause gastroenteritis, cholera, hepatitis, and other illnesses. Chemical contaminants and toxins may also render water unsafe.

Prevention emphasizes protecting sources and treating water to remove or inactivate pathogens and pollutants. Measures include sanitation facilities, water treatment with coagulation, filtration, and disinfection (chlorine, UV, ozone), regular monitoring, and prompt public health actions like boil-water advisories. Safe wastewater management and climate-resilient water systems are also important.

Historical and contemporary examples illustrate impact. The 1854 cholera outbreak in London, linked to a contaminated water source, helped establish the link between water quality and public health. The 1993 Milwaukee outbreak of Cryptosporidium showed the potential for large-scale waterborne disease even in developed settings. Ongoing challenges include ensuring safe drinking water in low-resource areas, disaster response, and managing water quality amid climate change.