One of the global problems affecting us in these modern times is food security, and among these issues encountered, water contaminants are the most prevalent. This can be concerning as water-borne illnesses are one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity around the world.
With the sudden onset of rain, especially, having a potable water solution would help you and your family face the several disease-causing microbes lurking around the corner. Here are some of the most common water-borne bacteria and illnesses that people should be most wary of here in the Philippines:
Typhoid Fever
Typhoid fever is an illness caused by the bacterium, Salmonella typhi. It is more common in third world countries and an estimate made by the World Health Organization shows that around 11 – 20 million are affected annually which leads to 128,000 – 161,000 deaths every year.
It is highly infectious, spreading through food, water, and poor sanitation. That is why highly aggregated poor communities that lack access to safe water and adequate sanitation are the most susceptible.
People who are infected with the bacterium are presented with the following symptoms:
- Fever that grows gradually
- Muscle aches
- Sweating
- Diarrhea
- Muscle Aches
Although the illness can be treated with antibiotics, the emergence of highly resistant bacteria is a cause for alarm. Vaccines are also available, that is why, when you have plans to travel to places with poor sanitation and access to water, a shot is highly recommended.
Cholera
Another common bacteria-causing illness in our country is the Vibrio cholerae which is known to cause cholera. Same with typhoid fever, it is rampant in poor communities with little to no access to clean water and proper sanitation. Although most people do not show symptoms, cholera can be fatal and can kill within hours if untreated.
Its symptoms include:
- Vomiting
- Severe Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Muscle Cramps
Cholera can be treated easily with Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS). But severely dehydrated patients who did not have rapid access to rehydration treatment would need the administration of intravenous fluids (IV).
Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is also a bacterial disease caused by Leptospira. It can be spread through contact with infected urine of animals or with a urine-contaminated environment, this is why the onset of leptospirosis is commonly associated with the rainy season which can cause floods.
The bacteria can enter your body through scratches or cuts on your skin, or through the mucous membranes of your mouth, nose, and eyes and could possibly cause you:
- Conjunctival suffusion
- Jaundice
- Cough
- Hemorrhages
- Cardiac Failure
- Skin Rash
- Abdominal Pain
- Diarrhea and Nausea
It can be treated with oral antibiotics if the disease is still in its early stage. However, intravenous antibiotics will be required for a person to showcasing a more severe symptom.
Clean and Safe Water is an Investment
These are only three of the disease-causing microbes commonly found in the water systems of our country, but there are a lot more. From the bacteria, E. coli, to the amebiasis causing protozoan, and the virus that causes Hepatitis A, drinking unsafe water can be scarier than many Filipinos might think.
That is why, we at EPI Phil make sure to offer accessible water safety solutions such as Polydex, a water-miscible liquid that eliminates bacteria and algae that are present on the water. It results in cleaner water, reduces odor, is non-irritating to the eyes and skin, eco-friendly, and is very safe on humans.
Recent Comments