What best describes the risk and prevention of waterborne disease in field camps?

• A. Risks include malaria
• B. Risks include cholera, Giardia... (correct)
• C. Risks include respiratory infections; prevention with masks
• D. Risks include chemical exposure

Answer: (B)

Waterborne illness in field camps comes from drinking or using water that’s contaminated with fecal material. Cholera and Giardia are classic examples of diseases transmitted through polluted water, reflecting the jump from contaminated water sources or storage to diarrheal illness in the camp population. Because the risk centers on water, prevention focuses on making water safe at the point of use and preventing contamination in the first place: treat water before drinking—boiling for at least one minute (longer at higher elevations), or using reliable filtration and chlorine disinfection; store water in clean, covered containers and avoid recontamination by using clean utensils; protect water sources through proper sanitation and waste management; and promote good hygiene practices like handwashing with soap and safe food handling. This emphasis on water safety and sanitation best captures the risks and preventive measures in field camps. Malaria is vector-borne and prevented with nets and repellents, respiratory infections are mainly mitigated by masks and ventilation, and chemical exposure involves different precautions.