Bacteriological Assessment of the Surface of Hawked Sachet Water Bags Sold in Gboko, North Central Nigeria

Abstract

Bacterial contamination of drinking water, particularly in developing countries, affects 80% of the global population and poses a major health problem, causing various diseases and threatening the existence of the population.This study assessed the bacteriological quality of sachet water surface collected with swabs obtained from Ortese, Yandev and Gboko main markets of Gboko, North Central Nigeria. The samples were analyzed for coliform bacteria following the most probable number (MPN) protocol. The results showed that all surface swab samples were heavily contaminated with lactose fermenting bacteria. The highest counts were recorded for samples A6, C1, C3 and C4 resulting in >1,600 MPN/100ml while the lowest count was observed in A13 as 2 MPN/100ml. The confirmatory analysis revealed that 23 samples out of 60 samples produced a green metallic sheen which indicates the presence of coliform (Escherichia coli) thus making the sachet surface unsafe. The 23 Escherichia coli isolates were further confirmed by their Gram reaction. Therefore, the results of the present study showed that surfaces (exterior part) of sachet water sold within the region may be a source of contamination of the water during consumption. The presence of indicator bacteria suggests the possible occurrence of faecal contamination. Thus, attention should be given to this risk factor identified in order to ensure public health safety.