Controlling the Spread of Disease (Cambridge International IGCSE Biology)
Exam board Cambridge International · IGCSEUpdated 2026-08-28
Spec point —
10.1.2· Explain the importance of the following in controlling the spread of disease: (a) a clean water supply (b) hygienic food preparation (c) good personal hygiene (d) waste disposal (e) sewage treatment (details of the stages of sewage treatment are not required)
Controlling the spread of disease
- 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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