Assessing How Climate Variability (Floods, Droughts) Affects Water Contamination and Typhoid Outbreaks

Alberta Jeanne N.

 

School of Applied Health Sciences Kampala International University Uganda

ABSTRACT

Climate variability, including extreme weather events such as floods and droughts, has significant implications for water contamination and the occurrence of waterborne diseases like typhoid fever. This review explores the mechanisms by which floods and droughts contribute to the contamination of water sources and the subsequent increase in typhoid outbreaks. In flood-prone regions, overflowing sewage systems and compromised water treatment facilities lead to the spread of pathogens, including Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi, the causative agent of typhoid fever. Conversely, droughts exacerbate water scarcity, leading communities to rely on contaminated water sources, further elevating the risk of outbreaks. The review highlights the critical need for improved water and sanitation infrastructure, climate-resilient water management practices, and effective early warning systems to mitigate the public health impacts of these extreme events. By addressing these vulnerabilities, vulnerable populations can be better protected from the health threats posed by climate variability.

Keywords: Climate variability, floods, droughts, water contamination, typhoid fever, Salmonella enterica.

 

CITE AS: Alberta Jeanne N. (2026). Assessing How Climate Variability (Floods, Droughts) Affects Water Contamination and Typhoid Outbreaks. IDOSR JOURNAL OF BIOLOGY, CHEMISTRY AND PHARMACY 11(1):33-36. https://doi.org/10.59298/IDOSR/JBCP/26/102.3336