Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Waterborne transmission is the spread of pathogenic microorganisms through contaminated water. It often results in diseases like cholera, typhoid fever, and dysentery.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Common pathogens transmitted via water include bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
Waterborne diseases are prevalent in areas with poor sanitation and inadequate water treatment facilities.
Chlorination and boiling are effective methods to kill waterborne pathogens.
Symptoms of waterborne diseases often include diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps.
Epidemiological tracking of waterborne disease outbreaks can help identify contamination sources.
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Related terms
Vector-borne Transmission: The spread of disease through vectors such as mosquitoes or ticks.
Fomite Transmission: Transmission of infectious agents through contaminated inanimate objects.
Direct Contact Transmission: Spread of disease through direct physical contact between an infected individual and a susceptible host.