Contact Info
Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Prevention and Control Division
651-201-5414
Waterborne Illness
Waterborne illness is caused by recreational or drinking water contaminated by disease-causing microbes or pathogens. Of note, many waterborne pathogens can also be acquired by consuming contaminated food or beverages, from contact with animals or their environment, or through person-to-person spread.
- Causes and Symptoms of Waterborne Illness
Symptoms and causes of waterborne illnesses and links to disease-specific information. - Preventing Waterborne Illness
There is a lot you can do to enjoy water safely – whether you are swimming in it or drinking it. Learn what you can do to prevent waterborne illnesses.
Preventing Recreational Water Illnesses | Preventing Illness from Drinking Water | Preventing Illness while Camping, Hiking, and Traveling | For Recreational Water Employees - Waterborne Illness Surveillance Statistics
Summary surveillance statistics for outbreaks and selected diseases. - Waterborne Outbreaks
Information about waterborne illness outbreaks, including detection and investigation in Minnesota.
Outbreak Basics | Reporting Suspected Illness | Outbreak Detection | Outbreak Investigations - Health Care Professional Information on Waterborne Illness
Clinical information and required reporting information. - Child Care Provider Information on Diarrheal Illness
Diarrhea (loose stools) is a common symptom of several infections that can be easily spread to other children or staff in child care settings. - Print Materials
Fact sheets, posters and other materials that you can print and use.
Related Topics
- Reporting Suspected Foodborne and Waterborne Illness
Please contact the Minnesota Department of Health if you suspect you have a foodborne or waterborne illness. MDH will relay the necessary information to the appropriate local health authorities. - Minnesota WAVE Study
MDH is conducting the Minnesota Water and Virus Evaluation (WAVE) Study to help determine if there is a link between drinking water and germs (like viruses) that might make people sick.
Last Updated: 01/13/2023