Skip to main content
Ch. 1 - The Microbial World and You
Chapter 1, Problem 25.1a

All of the following can be transmitted by recreational (i.e., swimming) water sources except
a. amebic dysentery.
b. cholera.
c. giardiasis.
d. hepatitis B.
e. salmonellosis.

Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the diseases listed in the options: amebic dysentery, cholera, giardiasis, hepatitis B, and salmonellosis.
Understand the common transmission routes for each disease. For example, amebic dysentery, cholera, giardiasis, and salmonellosis are often transmitted through contaminated water.
Recognize that hepatitis B is primarily transmitted through blood and bodily fluids, not typically through water.
Consider the context of recreational water sources, which are more likely to transmit diseases through ingestion of contaminated water.
Conclude that the disease not typically transmitted by recreational water sources is hepatitis B.

Verified Solution

Video duration:
0m:0s
This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above.
Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Waterborne Diseases

Waterborne diseases are illnesses caused by pathogens that are transmitted through contaminated water. These pathogens can include bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, which can enter water sources through fecal contamination. Understanding the types of pathogens associated with recreational water sources is crucial for identifying potential health risks.
Recommended video:
Guided course
04:57
Communicable vs. Noncommunicable Diseases

Transmission Routes

Different pathogens have specific transmission routes, which can include direct contact, ingestion, or inhalation of contaminated water. For instance, diseases like cholera and giardiasis are commonly transmitted through ingestion of contaminated water, while hepatitis B is primarily transmitted through blood and bodily fluids, not typically through water sources.
Recommended video:
Guided course
04:23
Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM)

Recreational Water Quality

Recreational water quality refers to the safety and cleanliness of water bodies used for swimming and other activities. Monitoring for pathogens and contaminants is essential to prevent outbreaks of waterborne diseases. Regulatory standards often dictate acceptable levels of microbial contamination to protect public health in recreational settings.
Recommended video:
Guided course
01:29
Introduction to Water