What are health risks associated with untreated wastewater?

Untreated wastewater poses significant health risks primarily because it can contain a variety of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Exposure to this contaminated water can lead to infections and waterborne diseases. These diseases are transmitted through direct contact with contaminated water or consumption of water, food, or produce irrigated with untreated wastewater. Common illnesses associated with untreated wastewater include cholera, dysentery, and hepatitis A, all of which can have severe health implications, particularly in vulnerable populations.

The other choices certainly highlight concerns related to untreated wastewater, such as respiratory issues, skin irritation, increased mosquito populations, and contaminated agricultural products, but they do not capture the direct and significant health risks associated with infections and waterborne diseases. Understanding these risks emphasizes the necessity of proper wastewater treatment to protect public health and the environment.