At a glance
Diarrheal disease is a major health problem and generally more common when temperatures are higher. While not increasing in the United States, it is still a concern.
Overview
Diarrheal disease is a major public health issue in developing countries. While not generally increasing in the United States, it remains a persistent concern.
Exposure to a variety of pathogens in water and food causes diarrheal disease. Things that are known to affect disease transmission are:
- Air and water temperatures
- Precipitation patterns
- Extreme rainfall events
- Seasonal variations
In the United States, serious outcomes from waterborne illness are most likely in:
- Children
- The elderly
- Those exposed to untreated groundwater
Patterns
In general, diarrheal diseases, including salmonellosis and campylobacteriosis, are more common when temperatures are higher. Patterns differ by place and pathogen.
Diarrheal diseases occur more often with both high and low precipitation. Irregular stream flow increases, often from rapid snowmelt and water treatment changes, often precede outbreaks.
Climate change is expected to heighten risks of waterborne illness and beach closures in the Great Lakes due to changes in lake temperature and recent precipitation (within 24 hours).
Resources
- Food Safety – guidance on food safety and foodborne illnesses and outbreaks
- Healthy Water – information and resources on drinking water and other Water, Sanitation, & Hygiene (WASH) topics
- Guidelines for the Management of Acute Diarrhea After a Disaster – disaster recovery information for healthcare providers
- Warmer Water and Flooding Increase the Risk of Illness or Injury