POPLINE Document Number: 172850
Author(s):
Chemuliti JK
Gathura PB
Kyule MM
Njeruh FM
Source citation:
East African Medical Journal, 2002 May;79(5):271-273.
Abstract:
This cross-sectional study carried out in Kibera slums located 7 km southwest from the Nairobi City center was conducted to compare the bacteriological quality of out-house (tank or standpipe) water and in-house drinking water (storage containers) and determine the risk factors influencing it. Water samples from 20 outside tanks/standpipes and 60 from in-house water storage containers. Pour plate method was used to enumerate total bacterial counts in water, while the multiple tube technique was used to determine fecal coliform (FC) and fecal streptococci (FS) numbers. A questionnaire and environmental observation were used to determine the risk factors influencing bacteriological quality of water. The mean total bacterial counts (TBC) for out-house water was 46.6/100 ml while that for in-house was 818.2/100 ml. Fecal coliforms were isolated from 7 (35%) standpipes and 57 (95%) in-house storage containers. The mean fecal coliform count was 93 and 103.4/100 ml for out-house and in-house water, respectively. The counts were significantly higher in the latter. Fecal streptococci were isolated from 2 (10%) standpipes and 37 (61.7%) in-house storage containers. The mean fecal streptococci counts were 35 and 65/100 ml for out-house and in-house water sources, respectively. Escherichia coli was isolated in 2 (10%) of out-house water and 30 (50%) of in-house. Of these, four were enteropathogenic, serotype 011 from one out-house water source and serotypes 011, 011, 0112ac from in-house water sources. Bacteriogical contamination of water at the source with a further deterioration between the collection points and homes was observed. A defective water delivery system and inadequate environmental sanitation were a potential source of contamination for out-house water. Scoops were a major source of contamination for stored water. (author's)
Keywords:
KenyaIndex page
Research Report
Cross Sectional Analysis
Comparative Studies
Slums
Water Supply
Storage and Warehouses
Bacterial and Fungal Diseases
Developing Countries
Africa, Eastern
Africa, Sub Saharan
Africa
Research Methodology
Studies
Urbanization
Urban Population Distribution
Population Distribution
Geographic Factors
Population
Natural Resources
Environment
Organization and Administration
Infections
Diseases