The Global Water Crisis
Unsafe water contains harmful microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, which enter the human body through contaminated drinking water (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).
Diseases caused by unsafe water include cholera, typhoid, dysentery, and hepatitis A. These diseases affect the digestive system, leading to severe dehydration and loss of essential electrolytes, which can result in organ failure (World Health Organization).
Children under the age of five are especially vulnerable. Due to their smaller body size and weaker immune systems, they can quickly suffer from dehydration, leading to life-threatening conditions such as hypovolemic shock (UNICEF; World Bank).
