STREAMS AND HAND-DUG WELLS: BACTERIOLOGICAL COMPOSITIONS AND PERIODIC VARIATIONS. BENUE AND EBONYI STATES IN FOCUS

Abstract

Water is an essential component of human existence. However, there is a growing concern about the shortage and quality of water supply in many societies in developing countries. Consequently, many people resort to unhealthy sources to get water for various purposes, thereby being exposed to multiple waterborne diseases.  The study examined the probable variants in bacteriological contamination of streams and handdug well water in Benue and Ebonyi States, Nigeria. Seven streams and seventeen hand-dug wells were examined, and water samples were collected from these sites. They were analyzed for total bacteria count in relation to seasonal differences (wet and dry seasons). The study was conducted between August 2020 to March 2021, and the World Health Organization's standard procedure of water examination was observed. The findings revealed that the streams and hand-dug wells examined were highly contaminated with microorganisms in both seasons. Hence, supporting the understanding that streams and wells as sources of water supply are frequently contaminated regardless of the season. The contamination of all streams and wells could be attributed to various factors ranging from human activities to climate change. The finding, recommendations, and future directions are discussed.