Waterborne Diseases in Algeria (2000-2023): Spatiotemporal Trends Analysis and Public Health Determinants.

This study examines the spatiotemporal dynamics and determinants of waterborne diseases (WBDs) in Algeria between 2000 and 2023, using annual epidemiological reports from the National Institute of Public Health. Five major diseases are analyzed: foodborne disease outbreaks (FBDOs), hepatitis A, dysentery, typhoid fever, and cholera. Descriptive statistics, temporal trend analysis, and age-stratified profiling are applied to identify epidemiological patterns and underlying determinants. Results indicate a significant epidemiological transition: Typhoid fever and dysentery declined by nearly 98%, reflecting progress in access to safe water and sanitation. In contrast, FBDOs and hepatitis A account for more than 80% of the total burden, with distinct seasonal peaks: hepatitis A in winter and FBDOs in summer. Cholera remains sporadic but re-emerged in 2018, highlighting persistent outbreak risks. Age-stratified analysis reveals differential vulnerabilities: Children and adolescents are most affected by hepatitis A and dysentery, young adults by typhoid fever and FBDOs, and older adults by cholera. Spatial disparities are evident, driven by climatic variability, unequal access to safe water, and weaknesses in the food supply chain. These findings underscore the need for an integrated public health approach that combines strengthened epidemiological surveillance, sustainable improvements in water and sanitation systems, enhanced food safety regulation, targeted vaccination, and climate-sensitive health policies. The Algerian experience offers insights relevant to other North African and Mediterranean contexts facing similar environmental and socio-demographic challenges.