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    Effect of Pit latrines on Enteric-Pathogen and Physicochemical Contamination of Ground Water in Tigania West Sub-County, Meru County, Kenya

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    Date
    2025
    Author
    Stephen, Evans Monyancha
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    Abstract
    Groundwater contamination is a global concern, posing risks to public health and ecosystems. In Kenya, particularly in rural areas like Tigania West Sub County, Meru County, groundwater contamination is a pressing issue due to use of pit latrines. The main objective of the study was to investigate the impact of pit latrines on enteric pathogen and physicochemical contamination of groundwater in Tigania West Sub County, Meru County, Kenya. Data was collected using a questionnaires and laboratory analysis. The sample size for this research was 96 households, distributed among all the wards. Data was analysed using SPSS version 27. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages provided an overview of the data. Inferential statistics such as Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and regression analysis were used to determine significant differences between groups and to identify relationships between variables. The study revealed significant associations between pit latrine proximity to groundwater sources and waterborne disease prevalence. The correlation coefficient (r=0.456) indicates a moderate positive relationship between the proximity of pit latrines and waterborne infections. Enteric pathogens (total coliforms, E. coli, Salmonella, Shigella, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus faecalis and Helminths.) were detected in groundwater samples, indicating contamination. The correlation coefficient (r = 0.076) also indicated a very weak positive relationship between high enteric pathogen prevalence and waterborne infections. Physicochemical analysis revealed conformities with WHO guidelines. For example, in Mbeu ward, 93.33% of groundwater samples had optimal pH levels of 6.5-8.5. The BOD analysis indicated varying levels of organic pollution across different wards, with Athwana Ward showing the highest levels of contamination, followed by Kianjai and Nkomo Wards. Akithi and Mbeu Wards exhibited moderate levels of organic pollution. These findings highlighted the need for targeted interventions to reduce organic pollution in groundwater sources across the different wards. The study concluded that considerable proportion of pit latrines were found to be located in close proximity to water sources, below 30m, raising concerns about potential fecal contamination of groundwater. The study recommended construction and maintenance of pit latrines to ensure they are situated at safe distances from groundwater sources. The detection of pathogens such as total coliforms, E. coli, Salmonella, and Shigella indicates potential health risks associated with groundwater consumption, emphasizing the importance of regular water quality monitoring and treatment to ensure safe drinking water provision. The study recommended the construction and maintenance of pit latrines to ensure they are situated at safe distances from groundwater sources. Implement regulations and guidelines for the siting and construction of pit latrines to minimise the risk of fecal contamination of groundwater. Increased awareness and education among local communities on the importance of safe water practices, including proper sanitation and hygiene measures. Encourage the use of improved sanitation facilities and the adoption of water treatment methods to reduce the risk of waterborne diseases
    URI
    http://repository.must.ac.ke/handle/123456789/1599
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