ABSTRACT
This study investigates the prevalence and impact of waterborne diseases on children under the age of 10 in Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. The research focuses on diseases transmitted through contaminated water sources, such as cholera, typhoid fever, and diarrhea, highlighting the critical relationship between water quality and public health. Methodologically, the study adopts a cross-sectional approach, surveying 300 children and their caregivers to gather data on water consumption habits, health outcomes, and hygiene practices. Physio-chemical and metal parameters are analyzed within WHO standards, revealing microbial load exceeding permissible limits, indicating a potential risk of waterborne disease transmission in the area. Findings from the study underscore the predominance of borehole water as the primary drinking source in Ikpoba Okha, reflecting broader challenges of inadequate piped water infrastructure in rural Nigeria. Despite perceived cleanliness, concerns regarding water quality persist, with sensory cues often guiding community perceptions. Low rates of water testing further compound these challenges, highlighting the need for improved access to testing services and community awareness initiatives. The high prevalence of waterborne diseases, notably typhoid fever, among children underscores the urgency for improved sanitation and hygiene practices to prevent disease transmission in vulnerable populations. Recommendations emphasize the importance of integrated interventions targeting water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) to address waterborne diseases effectively. Strengthening healthcare access and promoting preventive care, alongside community-led WASH promotion efforts, are essential for reducing the burden of waterborne diseases on children's health and educational outcomes. Policy initiatives aimed at improving water infrastructure and promoting behavior change campaigns can empower communities to address water-related health risks collectively. Overall, the study highlights the need for concerted efforts to ensure access to safe drinking water and enhance public health outcomes in rural communities like Ikpoba Okha.
