Assessment of the relationship between bacteriological quality of dug-wells, hygiene behaviour and well characteristics in two cholera endemic localities in Douala, Cameroon

Abstract

BackgroundAccess to potable water is grossly inadequate in Douala-Cameroon. The situation is worse in slum areas, compelling inhabitants to obtain water from sources of doubtful quality. This has contributed to frequent outbreaks of water-borne diseases particularly cholera, which results in severe morbidity and mortality. Shallow wells are a major source of water in these areas. We analyzed the influence of some factors on the bacteriological quality of well water in Bepanda and New Bell, cholera endemic localities in Douala to generate data that would serve as basis for strengthening of water and health policies.MethodsQuestionnaires were administered to inhabitants of study sites to appraise their hygiene and sanitation practices, and level of awareness of waterborne diseases. The bacteriological quality of water was determined by investigating bacterial indicators of water quality. Relationship between well characteristics and bacteriological quality of water was determined using χ2 test. The Kendall tau_b nonparametric correlation was used to measure the strength of association between well characteristics and bacteriological parameters. Statistics were discussed at 95% confidence level. Antibiotic susceptibility of isolates was investigated by the Kirby-Bauer and broth dilution techniques. Multidrug resistant species were tested for extended β-lactamase production potential.ResultsInhabitants demonstrated adequate knowledge of waterborne diseases but employed inappropriate method (table salt) for well disinfection. Well construction and location violated guidelines. Indicator bacterial counts greatly exceeded the WHO guidelines. Variation in bacteriologic parameters between sites was not significant (P > 0.05) since well characteristics and hygiene and sanitary practices were similar. Differences in bacteriologic quality with respect to state of well, and presence of molded casing and lid, and height of casing were not significant (P > 0.05). Well distance from sanitary structure negatively correlated with bacteriological characteristics indicating it could be a major contributory factor to poor water quality. Bacteria isolated were predominantly enteric organisms. Ciprofloxacin was the most active agent. Extended β-lactamase producers were detected among Salmonella species, Citrobacter fruendii and E. coli.ConclusionPoor well location, construction, and hygiene and sanitary practices were among the factors affecting water quality. There is an urgent need for education of inhabitants on effective water disinfection strategies and for regular monitoring of wells.

Physico-Chemical Properties and Microbiological Quality of Borehole Water in Four Crowded Areas of Benin City, Nigeria, During Rainfalls

“…The detection of Antimicrobial Resistant (AMR) bacteria in borehole water has been reported in South Africa (8,39), Cameroon (40), and Denmark (34). In one such study, Ateba et al reported the presence of isolates that were resistant to chloramphenicol, vancomycin, oxytetracycline, amoxicillin, erythromycin, and sulfamethoxazole (8).…”

Factors Determining Water Treatment Behavior for the Prevention of Cholera in Chad

“…3 Evidence on the positive effect of point-of-use treatment on water quality, and significant reductions in diarrheal diseases among its users, exists. [4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11] The usage of chlorine products has been described as one effective and easy-to-use means of water disinfection. Likewise, the protective effect of solar-disinfected water against cholera infections in small children has been shown and could serve as an alternative point-of-use treatment method.…”

Faktor yang Memengaruhi Perilaku Penggunaan Air Bersih pada Masyarakat Kumuh Perkotaan berdasar atas Integrated Behavior Model

“…11,15,16 Kepentingan terhadap perilaku memakai air bersih menjadi dasar pertimbangan seseorang untuk berniat melakukan sesuatu. Jika ia menganggap apa yang akan dilakukannya penting maka pada tahap selanjutnya ia akan mempunyai niat yang didukung oleh sikap, norma yang dipersepsikan, dan kondisi personalnya.…”

“…17 Niat dan hambatan lingkungan berpengaruh terhadap perilaku menmpergunakan air bersih di tatanan rumah tangga. [8][9][10]15,16 Hambatan lingkungan terhadap perilaku penggunaan air bersih memiliki nilai yang baik pada semua responden. Masyarakat yang berasumsi bahwa lingkungan Tamansari memang sudah kumuh dan air yang mereka dapat dari sumur bor maupun gali lebih mudah dan murah terjangkau.…”

“…[16][17][18] Masyarakat merasa sumur yang mereka gunakan sudah aman karena tidak berwarna, tidak berasa, dan tidak berbau. Masyarakat juga beranggapan penyakit yang mereka alami adalah penyakit yang biasa dialami sehingga tidak menggerakkan mereka untuk mencari sumber air bersih yang lebih baik.…”