Each year, around 7.2 million people in the United States are affected by waterborne diseases, according to EPA (Environmental Protection Agency). This is so because, naturally occurring water in most parts of the US is contaminated with toxic viruses that can pose serious health threats to human health.
That’s why, it is essential for everyone to get a full understanding of different waterborne viruses along with the ways through which they can avoid them.
In this blog, we are going to take a detailed look into different waterborne viruses. Additionally, we will also get familiar with the useful ways through which you can efficiently eliminate them from the water, making it completely safe and clean.
Also, read our blog post about Dangers of Microplastics in Water & How You Can Avoid Them
Some common Waterborne Viruses
Below, we have discussed some of the common viruses found in the water.
1. Hepatitis A:
Most of you out there will also be aware of Hepatitis A. This primarily affects the liver, leading to death. Hepatitis is mostly transmitted through contaminated water and food. Some of the most common symptoms of this waterborne virus are:
· Fatigue
· Jaundice
· Abdominal pain
· Loss of appetite
But if not treated on time, it can result in liver failure and ultimately death.
2. Norovirus:
This is yet another commonly found waterborne virus in the water commonly known as “stomach flu.” It is usually spread through regular swimming in pools and drinking contaminated water. Some common symptoms of norovirus are listed below:
· Diarrhea
· Nausea
· Vomiting
· Stomach cramps
According to medical experts, this waterborne virus can quickly spread in closed environments like schools, hospitals, basements, etc.
3. Rotavirus:
Recent studies suggest that rotavirus is one of the major causes of diarrhea in infants and children in the United States of America. It primarily gets its way into the human body through contaminated water. Common symptoms of rotavirus are as follows:
· Fever
· Vomiting
· Abdominal pain
· Watery diarrhea
Rotavirus can pose serious health threats, especially to children. That’s why, it is recommended to immediately concern with a doctor if you or your infant experience any of the symptoms above.
So, these are some of the most common waterborne viruses that may get their way into your water through different sources.
Different Sources That Which Waterborne Viruses Enter into the Water
There are numerous sources through which waterborne viruses enter the water; some of the major ones are discussed below:
1. Contaminated water supplies:
The water will become contaminated with toxic waterborne viruses when it comes into contact with sewage or fecal sewage. This can mostly occur due to inadequate sewage systems, or sewage overflow.
2. Runoff coming from agriculture:
We all know that, agriculture activities involve the use of fertilizers, pesticides, and animal waste. All these can contribute to water contamination. Want to know how? let us explain.
When it rains, all the substances (fertilizers, pesticides, animal waste, etc.) will be washed into the nearby water sources, introducing waterborne viruses.
3. Poor sanitation practices:
Another major source of waterborne viruses is poor sanitation practices. Improper disposal of both human and animal waste or inadequate sewage systems can produce toxic viruses in the water. This can be especially true in areas that have limited sanitation facilities.
So, these are some of the major sources of waterborne viruses. Now, let’s head toward the ways through which can avoid them.
How You Can Avoid Waterborne Viruses
There are numerous ways through which you can protect yourself from waterborne viruses.
1. Drink water that is clean and safe:
As we already know, waterborne viruses are mostly transmitted through contaminated water sources; so, to prevent yourself, you should drink water that is completely safe from any kind of virus, for this, you can install a water filtration system.
It will efficiently remove toxic contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, chemicals, sediment, and many more, from the water, making it safe and clean to drink.
Along with this, the water filter will also improve the overall taste and odor by removing minerals that affect the taste and odor of the water.
2. Avoid swimming in polluted water sources:
Another way through which you can prevent yourself from waterborne viruses is by avoiding swimming in water sources that are contaminated. Water sources such as lakes and rivers can become contaminated due to improper sewage disposal, runoff from factories, or agriculture.
Due to this, it would be best for you to avoid swimming in rivers and lakes. If you want to swim, then you can opt for a swimming pool.
3. Wash your hands more often:
To avoid waterborne viruses, you should regularly wash your hands with soap, especially before eating or preparing the food. According to doctors, use both soap and water and scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds before washing.
4. Follow proper sanitation practices:
Following proper sanitation practices, such as proper disposal of waste, keeping your home surroundings clean, etc can also help you to avoid waterborne viruses.
So, these are some of the ways through which you can easily avoid waterborne viruses and live a healthy life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are waterborne viruses?
These are viruses that are usually transmitted through contaminated water sources, and can cause serious illness when ingested into the human body or come into contact with the body.
Can waterborne viruses be transmitted through the air?
No, these viruses can not be transmitted through air; instead, they only transmit through polluted water sources or when come in contact with the body.
What should I do if I get affected by a waterborne virus?
If you get affected by a viral waterborne virus, immediately contact a medical professional; he/she will properly guide you through the treatment process.
Final Thoughts
Waterborne viruses are becoming a huge concern for both developed and developing countries and can cause serious illnesses like liver failure if not treated on time.
In this blog post article, we have explained some of the most waterborne viruses, major resources, and some effective through which you can avoid them.