Abstract

BACTERIOLCGICAL ASSESSMENT OF STREAM DRINKING WATER FROM VARIOUS SOURCES IN UMUAHIA METROPOLIS

Nwandikor Uzoije Ugwuzor, Obeagu Emmanuel Ifeanyi*, Onyenweaku, Florence C

Abstract

Ten streams (10) (ST) water samples were randomly collected. The water samples were analysed by the Multiple Tube Method,coliform counts were determined by the Most Probable Number (MPN) technique; and result ranged from 0 - >18 orgs/100 ml. Isolates were further identified by routine laboratory techniques. Escherichia coli was predominant in 9(90%) of ST. Other isolates include Salmonella and Enterobacter spp, 4% each in the total samples, followed by Klebsiella spp, 3%; Proteus spp and Bacillus spp with 2% each in 10 samples. The result indicates a recent and (perhaps continuous) faecal pollution arising from poor hygiene and failure of treatment processes. This does not meet the WHO standard for potability. Potability of water deteriorates during the rainy months due to flooding/eutrophication and seepage.

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