DRACUNCULIASIS

It is also known as guinea worm disease . it is caused by a parasite known as Dracunculus Medinensis . Dranculiasis is a disease which occurs by drinking stagnant water contaminated by larvae of this guinea worm .

CAUSE

It is caused by Dracunculus Medinensis which is found in contaminated  water .

SIGNS / SYMPTOMS

When the germ enters the circulatory system the patient experiences severe pain along with other symptoms which include

Fever

Nausea

Vomiting

PREVENTION

This disease does not have any cure so prevention is of utmost significance .

Drinking water should be obtained from a bore hole or a hand dug well i.e from an under ground source as it is free from contamination .

Water should be either filtered or boiled before drinking

People who are suffering from the disease should stay away from the wells and other water sources .

SCHISTOSOMIASIS : A PARASITIC INFECTION

Schistosoma is a parasite which lives in blood which enters human body through contaminated water and half cooked meat and fish which in the human body causes many problems like abdominal pain , inflammation of the liver and pancreas , inflammation of the bladder , blood in urine , anemia and weakness .

CAUSES

Use of unhygienic water

Use of undercooked meat

Improper washing of hands before intake of meals

Taking bath in river or canal with water which is contaminated by animal stool

Eating green vegetables which are grown in land contaminated by dirty water

SIGNS

Fever

Itching and rash of skin

Blood in urine

Anemia

Weakness

PREVENTION

Using boiled water

Washing hands properly before eating

Hand washing after washroom

Eating hygienic food

Properly cooking the food

Maintaining cleanliness

Public awareness

 

ARSENIC IS POISONOUS

Arsenic poisoning is basically due to increased levels of arsenic in the body . The element is present in the soil and can leak into the surrounding water supplies . Those involved in wood industry , lead industry , pesticide production and glass industry are all at high risk for arsenic poisoning . It is lethal even in minimal amount . According to WHO drinking water should contain less than 0.01mg/L of arsenic .

CAUSES

This is very poisonous even in small amounts in water and food . It can also be transmitted in wood cutters and factory glass workers . Rat killing tablets may also contain it and humans can come in contact with it through these medicines .

SIGNS / SYMPTOMS

Headache

Anorexia

Weight loss

Diarrhea

Nausea

Changes in the fingernail

 pigmentation

Deficiency of vitamins                                

Flu

Cough

Prolonged exposure may lead

 to night blindness

PREVENTION

Use boiled water

Wash hands before having meals

Avoid taking rice which are grown in industrial area because it may easily accumulate in rice

Factory workers should use mask and have regular check up