Which of the following diseases is common in slums due to unavailability of clean drinking water?

The correct answer is Dysentery.

Key Points

• Dysentery is a common waterborne disease caused by the consumption of contaminated water, often prevalent in slums where clean drinking water is unavailable.
• It is primarily caused by pathogens such as Shigella bacteria or Entamoeba histolytica (a type of amoeba).
• The disease leads to symptoms such as diarrhea with blood or mucus, abdominal cramps, fever, and dehydration.
• Poor sanitation, lack of hygiene, and unavailability of clean water are major factors contributing to the spread of dysentery in densely populated areas like slums.
• Immediate access to clean drinking water, proper sanitation facilities, and healthcare services are critical to controlling the spread of dysentery.

Additional Information

• Waterborne Diseases: These are diseases caused by pathogens found in contaminated water, including cholera, typhoid, dysentery, and hepatitis A.
• Shigella Bacteria: A group of bacteria responsible for bacillary dysentery, known for spreading through contaminated food and water or person-to-person contact.
• Entamoeba histolytica: A parasitic protozoan that causes amoebic dysentery, often transmitted through fecal contamination of drinking water.
• Preventive Measures: Boiling water, using water filters, promoting handwashing, and maintaining good hygiene practices are key to preventing waterborne diseases.
• Global Impact: According to the WHO, waterborne diseases are a major public health concern, especially in low-income areas, causing millions of deaths annually due to lack of access to clean drinking water.