The wanton destruction of natural resources by human activity has caused the spread of waterborne diseases. Today, almost all sources of fresh water in the world are polluted. While ponds and lakes are polluted by domestic and commercial waste, larger body masses such as oceans have been contaminated by large-scale fishing and water sports. The following are the top 5 waterborne diseases. Learn how to use water purification systems to keep you and your loved ones safe.

1. Dysentery

The symptoms of dysentery are severe diarrhea, nausea, abdominal cramps, acute fever and blood in fecal matter. While amoebas cause amoebic dysentery, bacillary dysentery is the results of bacteria in the water. These microbial organisms enter the human body through ingestion of contaminated food and water. The problem is common in rural areas where water is not treated. In just four days’ time, the microorganisms develop the condition. Without proper water purification systems, victims could die from deprivation of vital nutrients.

2. Cholera

Cholera is a disease that affects the small intestines of humans. It is caused by deadly bacteria called Vibrio Cholerae. It is one of the deadliest diseases known to man, as it can cause death within hours of infection. In fact, the World Health Organization estimates that more than 100,000 people die of cholera annually in the world. Where water contamination has been reported, it is almost certain to have a cholera outbreak.

3. Diarrhea

In the developing world, it is common for people to lack sanitation systems such as toilets. Children and adults alike often defecate in open ground, with the waste finding its way into water sources. If people drink, cook with or otherwise use the contaminated water, bacteria and parasites enter the human body. Diarrhea is the condition where humans pass loose watery stool. It is often accompanied by chronic vomiting, nausea, and general body weakness. Without water purification systems, children and infants can die within hours of ingesting the polluted water and food.

4. Typhoid Fever

Fever, high body temperature, nausea, lack of appetite and malaise are common symptoms of typhoid fever. The disease is caused by the ingestion of the bacteria type Salmonella Typhi. These bacteria are presented in wastewater that is improperly drained. The disease is therefore common in congested urban dwellings such as slums. When a person eats or drinks contaminated food and water, the bacteria find their way into the digestive tract. Doctors can identify traces of the bacteria in stool samples. Although it is not as lethal as most waterborne diseases, it causes people to spend vast resources on treatment.

5. Schistosomiasis

Polluted water is a great habitat for snails. These slimy creatures harbor worms in their bodies and occasionally enter into water meant for human use. When people bath and wash clothes in these worm infested waters, the worms can penetrate the skin and make themselves comfortable in the intestines, lungs, bladder and even liver. As they eat food from these vital organs, the victim suffers bleeding, which is passed through stool. Without fast treatment, victims face threatening nutrient deprivation.