Which disease is not considered transmissible through water?

The correct answer is tuberculosis, which is primarily an airborne disease rather than a waterborne one. Tuberculosis is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis and is chiefly transmitted through droplets released into the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. Because it spreads via this airborne route, water does not play a role in its transmission.

In contrast, cholera, bacillary dysentery, and typhoid fever are all waterborne diseases. Cholera is caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae and spreads through contaminated water, leading to severe diarrhea and dehydration. Bacillary dysentery, often caused by Shigella species, is transmitted through contaminated water and can lead to significant gastrointestinal issues. Typhoid fever, caused by Salmonella typhi, is also associated with contaminated water and can cause severe systemic illness. Understanding these differences is crucial in public health as it helps in implementing appropriate measures to control and prevent the spread of these diseases.