Drinking unboiled water can potentially expose you to various diseases caused by waterborne pathogens. Some common diseases that can be transmitted through contaminated water include:
1. Cholera: A bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, which leads to severe diarrhea and dehydration.
2. Typhoid fever: Caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhi, it is characterized by high fever, abdominal pain, and gastrointestinal symptoms.
3. Hepatitis A: A viral infection that affects the liver and is transmitted through contaminated water or food. It can cause jaundice, fatigue, and other flu-like symptoms.
4. Giardiasis: Caused by the parasite Giardia lamblia, it leads to gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and bloating.
5. Cryptosporidiosis: Caused by the parasite Cryptosporidium, it causes diarrhea, stomach cramps, and nausea.
6. Dysentery: A bacterial or parasitic infection that leads to severe diarrhea with blood or mucus, abdominal pain, and fever.
7. E. coli infection: Certain strains of Escherichia coli bacteria can cause severe gastrointestinal illness, leading to diarrhea, abdominal pain, and sometimes kidney failure.
It is important to note that boiling water can effectively kill most of these pathogens and make the water safe for consumption.