Global Water Supply and Safety

Clean water is essential for human health. It is necessary for drinking, farming, sanitation, and hygiene. Unfortunately, clean water is a global challenge. Progress in technology and policy has helped some, but not enough. Population growth and environmental challenges mean that clean water will remain a global health challenge for many years.

Water and Human Disease

Many diseases are waterborne – they spread via contaminated water. The most common symptom from contracting a waterborne microbe is diarrhea. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides a complete list of waterborne illnesses and sanitation and hygiene guidelines.

USAID Highlights

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) funds and coordinates programs related to water supply and safety.

• Strategic partnerships
• Map of funding programs around the world
• Promoting Integrated Water Resources Management
• Global Waters newsletter

Other Links

• Water Safety for Travelers (CDC)
• World Health Organization information on the connections between water, sanitation,
  and health