Controlling the Spread of Disease (Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE Combined Science): Revision Note

Exam code: 0653

Lára Marie McIvor

Last updated

Controlling the Spread of Disease: Extended

  • The simplest way to prevent disease is to stop pathogens from spreading

  • This means using simple measures such as good hygiene and effective sanitation and waste disposal to contain pathogens and dispose of them safely

Preventing the Spread of Disease Table

Measure to prevent spread

Importance

Clean water supply

Safe drinking water ensures water is free of pathogens which will prevent waterborne diseases e.g. cholera.

Hygienic food preparation

Washing hands with soap, correct food cooking methods and hygienic preparation of food will help to prevent contamination of food with harmful bacteria and fungi,

Personal hygiene

Washing with soap or using tissues to catch sneezes and coughs and then disposing of them will reduce transmission of diseases such as colds and flu.

Waste disposal

Proper disposal of waste e.g. food waste will reduce the prevalence of pests e.g. flies that can act as vectors for transmissible diseases.

Sewage treatment

Treatment of sewage removes harmful pathogens from waste before it is released into the environment. This reduces the risk of diseases spreading in contaminated water.

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Lára Marie McIvor

Author: Lára Marie McIvor

Expertise: Biology, Psychology & Sociology Subject Lead

Lára graduated from Oxford University in Biological Sciences and has now been a science tutor working in the UK for several years. Lára has a particular interest in the area of infectious disease and epidemiology, and enjoys creating original educational materials that develop confidence and facilitate learning.