PUBLIC HEALTH IMPLICATIONS OF SHIGELLA CONTAMINATION IN DRINKING WATER SOURCES IN OKOFIA, OTOLO, NNEWI NORTH LGA, ANAMBRA STATE

Abstract

Access to safe drinking water is a fundamental public health necessity. This study evaluates the public health implications of Shigella contamination in drinking water sources in Okofia, Otolo, within the Nnewi North Local Government Area of Anambra State. Shigella, a highly infectious bacterial pathogen, is associated with shigellosis a disease characterized by dysentery, fever, and dehydration, especially in children and immunocompromised individuals. Water samples from boreholes, wells, streams, and sachet water sold within the study area were analyzed for bacteriological quality using standard microbiological techniques. Results revealed that several water sources did not meet the World Health Organization (WHO) and Nigerian Standard for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ) guidelines, with Shigella species detected in a significant proportion of samples. The presence of Shigella indicates fecal contamination, inadequate sanitation, and potential for disease outbreaks. This study underscores the urgent need for coordinated public health interventions, sanitation improvements, and water treatment strategies to safeguard community health.