Is There Something in the Water?

Every year, more than 3.4 million people die from a water-related disease. Nearly all of these deaths occur in the developing world. 780 million people lack access to clean water, which is equivalent to 3 times the population of the United States. These statistics are extremely alarming especially when clean water and access is not scarce in our home country. As humans, we need water on a daily basis to survive. In the 21st century, it is really hard to believe that clean water and access to it are still not a common thing.  

Water safety is a major concern for people planning to travel abroad. Before traveling, one should research their destination and see if it has potential water safety issues. If the water is somewhat unsafe, travelers will soon find out their body cannot take the water. In an article by Everyday Healthy, it says that the United States, Canada, Australia and Europe all have pretty safe drinking water. 

While abroad, sticking to water from water bottles should work pretty well. The water in the bottle is usually purified and imported from various countries. However, water is used in many other things such as the ice cubes, washing the fruits and vegetables, brushing your teeth and showering. These all contain or have been processed through water in some type of way. The key is to research your travel destination and make sure that water is safe and sanitary. The other option is to make alternatives for obtaining water, so that you don't get dehydrated. 

For spring break this year, I travelled to Cancun, Mexico for a week long trip. I was excited for the clear ocean, beautiful weather and being with my closest friends. However, I did not know what I was in for when I came to find out water was scarce and a hot commodity. US citizens are not used to the water Mexico has and are very prone to getting sick from it. I could not drink the water from the sink nor the shower. The only safe method of water consumption was from bottled water. During the week, I got very dehydrated and my feet and fingers began to swell up. This feeling is extremely painful to the point where I could not even wear sandals!