Water Quality Assessment and Burden of Waterborne Diseases in Gyel and Du Communities of Jos South LGA
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Abstract
Background: Safe water is important for health, yet many people still rely on sources of water that are not adequately protected from contamination. Drinking unsafe water provides conditions that enhance the chances of contacting such waterborne illnesses as diarrhea and typhoid, especially in communities with poor sanitation measures. The study was conducted to assess water sources, handling practices, and waterborne diseases in Gyel and Du communities in Jos South Local Government Area.
Methods: A total of 807 respondents participated in this community-based cross-sectional survey. The structured questionnaire focused on household drinking water sources, storage methods, hygiene behaviors, and episodes of illness in the past six months. Water samples were collected from common sources like wells, streams, and stored household water. The water samples were assayed for simple quality indicators, namely pH, turbidity, and bacterial contamination, using simple laboratory procedures.
The results indicated a high reliance by households on water sources that were unsafe, with the majority being wells without protection and surface waters. The majority of households did not treat the water before drinking. Laboratory analysis indicated many samples contained unsafe levels for bacteria such as coliforms and Escherichia coli, indicative of fecal contamination. A large number of respondents reported diarrhea and typhoid within the last six months; this points to a strong association between water quality and health complaints.
Conclusion: Drinking water in Gyel and Du communities is not always safe, leading to a high burden of waterborne diseases. Improvements in water supply systems are urgently needed along with the promotion of household water treatment and improved sanitation and hygiene practices in order to safeguard public health.
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