Water-borne Disease

Background

• Water (especially from streams, rivers, ponds and lakes) can contain harmful bacteria, viruses and parasites
• You may become ill after drinking water from these sources

Examples

• Beaver Fever (Giardiasis)
• Cryptosporidiosis

How can I get sick?

• Drinking water contaminated with animal or human feces

How can I protect myself?

• Bring safe or bottled wa
• Boil all stream, river and lake water at a rolling boil for at least 10 minutes before using for:
  • Drinking
  • Preparing food
  • Brushing your teeth
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming in streams, rivers and lakes
• Protect water sources: – Bury waste far away from any water

Beware: Chemical disinfection and filters may not kill all bacteria, viruses or parasites

Not feeling well?

• Recognize common symptoms of waterborne disease:
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Fatigue
  • Chills
• If you develop symptoms:
  • Drink plenty of safe water
  • Use oral rehydration salts
  • Contact your doctor as soon as possible
  • Tell your doctor that you may have swallowed contaminated water

Beware: Some water-borne diseases can be transmitted from person to person