ABSTRACT
This study investigated the link between water quality, sanitation standards, and health status in a rural community. Water samples were collected from seven locations and analyzed for physicochemical and bacteriological parameters. Standard analytical and pour plate methods were adopted in analyzing the water samples. Standard questionnaires were administered to 150 respondents to generate information for sanitation and health status of the resident of Oka community. The results showed that the water samples had slightly acidic to near-neutral pH, ranging from 5.33 to 6.71 which is within the recommended range. However, the conductivity levels were low, ranging from 14 to 114µS/cm indicating minimal dissolved solids. Salinity levels were also below the recommended range, ranging from 6.33 to 59.33 ppm Turbidity levels were within the recommended range, ranging from 0.27 to 0.90 NTU indicating that the water samples were relatively clear and free of suspended particles. Alkalinity levels were below the recommended range, ranging from 0.21 to 0.50 mg/L indicating low levels of essential minerals. Bacteriological analysis revealed high heterotrophic bacterial counts and the presence of pathogenic bacteria such as Salmonella enterica and Acinetobacter baumanii, which can cause a range of waterborne illnesses. The study also investigated sanitation practices among community members and found that 92% of respondents had access to flush/pour-flush toilets, which is a positive indicator of sanitation infrastructure. However, only 2 persons separated their waste, and most respondents burnt their waste openly or accumulated it outside their premises, which can lead to environmental and health hazards. The health status of community members was also a concern, with 6.67% of respondents having suffered from cholera, 39.3% from typhoid fever, 20% from diarrhea, 26.7% from dysentery, and 31.3% from dehydration, Overall, the study's findings suggest that addressing the community's sanitation practices and healthcare access is crucial to reducing the incidence of waterborne illnesses and improving the overall health status of community members.
