Protecting Public Health: A Review of Water Contamination and Disinfection Practices
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56294/saludcyt20252405Keywords:
Water contamination, Waterborne infections, Water disinfection, Public health, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)Abstract
Introduction: Pathogen-induced water contamination is a significant global issue, resulting in both acute and chronic diseases. Environmental factors, chemical contaminants, and pathogenic microorganisms—such as viruses, bacteria, and parasites—deteriorate water quality. These obstacles impede the realization of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation). The objective of this review is to deliver a thorough evaluation of pathogen contamination in water resources, highlighting the public health concerns and the necessity for integrated, transdisciplinary strategies to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Method: Recent literature concerning microbial, parasite, and chemical pollution in water was synthesized. Comparative analysis across studies were undertaken to identify significant pollutants impacting water quality and human health.
Results: Data demonstrates that waterborne pathogens substantially degrade water quality and facilitate disease outbreaks. Microbial and parasite pollutants, affected by environmental and chemical variables, present significant health hazards. Research underlines the complexity of water contamination and the urgent need for thorough monitoring and management measures.
Conclusions: Findings underline the necessity of coordinated research and transdisciplinary approaches to treat waterborne illnesses. Effective methods must address biological, chemical, and environmental elements to prevent infections, improve public health, and maintain sustainable water management. Aligning these activities with SDG 3 and SDG 6 is critical for lowering waterborne disease burden and reaching global health and water safety targets.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Nagwa Mohamed Ahmed Mohamed, Ahmad Mahmoud Saleh, Majed A. A. Aldahdooh, Arul Vellaiyan, Elturabi Elsayed Ebrahim (Author)
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