Page 28 - Water Every Drop Counts

WATERBORNE DISEASES : SIMPLE STEPS SAVE LIVES

Do you know that unsafe water is the biggest killer of children under five? Around 90% of all
diarrheal deaths are in this age group. Simple steps listed below can vastly decrease morbidity
and mortality from water borne infections.

Practice good hygiene and ensure that
all the members of the family follow the
same hygienic behavior.

Wash hands regularly, especially
before and after meals and also before
and after using the wash room.

Keep finger nails short and clean at all
times; it is preferable to cut them short
once every four days.

Drink water after it has been thoroughly
filtered. Ensure that potable water is
maintained in a hygienic place during
storage. The storage containers of
drinking water must be thoroughly
washed every day.

If water purification system is not
available, boil the water and allow it
to cool in a hygienic container before
drinking.

Consume food that has been freshly
cooked. Avoid eating places that
appear shabby or have unclean
kitchens.

Ensure that the pipes and taps
supplying water to your home are
properly maintained. Bring to the notice
of your local supervisor of maintenance
agency in the event of rusty pumps or
unclean water wells.

Sanitation facilities must be properly maintained while care must be taken to ensure that use of
water supply does not clash with the sanitation systems.

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