Waterborne Disease Outbreaks: Risk Assessment and Response Strategies in Urban Slums

Isabella Sanchez¹, Michael Brown², Ana Rodríguez³, Diego Vargas⁴, Catherine Liu⁵

Abstract

Background:
Urban slums, characterized by overcrowding and poor sanitation, are hotspots for waterborne disease outbreaks. This study evaluates risk factors and public health responses in urban slum environments.

Methods:
A mixed-methods approach was used, including a retrospective analysis of outbreak data from 2015 to 2023 and in-depth community surveys. Cholera, typhoid fever, and hepatitis A were the primary diseases of focus. Environmental water samples were tested for contamination levels, and public health interventions were mapped.

Results:
Cholera incidence was significantly higher in areas with inadequate water filtration (p < 0.001). Typhoid fever outbreaks correlated with open sewage exposure and limited vaccination coverage. Public health interventions, including water chlorination and health education, reduced outbreak severity by 35% over three years.

Conclusion:
Targeted public health measures are effective in controlling waterborne diseases in urban slums. Scaling these interventions could substantially reduce morbidity and mortality rates in vulnerable communities.