a. Poor sanitation can contribute to conditions which may
result in diarrhea and dysentery (a medical term applied to a number of
intestinal disorders characterized by stomach pain and diarrhea with
passage of mucus and blood). Medical personnel can advise regarding the
cause and degree of illness. Remember, however, that intestinal diseases
are usually spread through contact with infectious organisms which can
be spread in human waste, by flies and other insects, or in improperly
prepared or disinfected food and water supplies.
b. Keep in mind the following principles that will assist you in
preventing diarrhea and/or dysentery.
(1) Fill your canteen with treated water at every chance.
When treated water is not available you must disinfect the water in your
canteen by boiling it or using either iodine tablets or chlorine ampules.
Iodine tablets or chlorine ampules can be obtained through your unit
supply channels or field sanitation team.
(2) DO NOT buy food, drinks, or ice from civilian vendors
unless approved by medical personnel.
(3) Wash your hands for at least 30 seconds after using the
latrine or before touching food.
(4) Wash your mess kit in a mess kit laundry or with
treated water.
(5) Food waste should be disposed of properly (covered
container, plastic bags or buried) to prevent flies from using it as a
breeding area.
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