Parasitic Contamination of Well Water Consumed in Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract

Contamination of water sources by infectious pathogens has been recognized as a global threat to public health especially in underdeveloped countries. This study was carried out to survey the parasitic load (eggs and cysts) of protozoan parasites found in well water sources in four different locations in Awka South Local Government area of Anambra state (Ifite-Awka, Amansea, Amaenyi and Temp site). A total of forty (40) well water samples were collected across the four locations and examined in the laboratory using centrifugation and sedimentation methods. Data obtained was analyzed using simple percentages and chi-square was used to test for differences in the parasites abundance in the different locations. A total abundance of 141 parasitic stages of Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium parvum were found in the well water samples across the study locations. Among the study locations, Amansea recorded the highest prevalence of protozoa parasites 51(36.17%) while Amaenyi area revealed the least infection rate 23(16.31%). Giardia lamblia 72(51.06%) was more abundant in the well water samples examined followed by Entamoeba histolytica 64(45.39%) while Cryptosporidium parvum 5(3.55%) was the least abundant protozoa parasite. The result revealed that the highest abundance of parasites was recorded in Amansea 51(36.17%) followed by Temp site 38(26.95%) while Amaenyi had the least 23(16.31%). The results showed the extent of parasitic contamination of the well sources across the study areas and the susceptibility of the populace to water-borne diseases. Hence, water obtained from these wells should be properly boiled before drinking, to avoid being infected.