ASSESSMENT OF PARASITIC CONTAMINATION OF SACHET DRINKING WATER IN SAGAMU LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF OGUN STATE

Abstract

Adequate supply of fresh and clean drinking water is a basic need for all human beings. Water
consumers are frequently unaware of the potential health risks associated with exposure to water
contaminants which have often led to number of water borne diseases. The affordability and
availability of sachet water had increased its consumption and increase in participants in the water
business, therefore, there are reports of compromise in the safety of the water due to contamination
by parasites. This study investigated the prevalence of contamination of sachet drinking water by
parasites in Sagamu Local government area of Ogun State. One hundred and twenty sachets of
water were obtained from ten producers’ factories and from retailers in the study area. The samples
were examined macroscopically for taste, odour impurities and pH. 10mls of each sample was
centrifuged at 2,500rpm for a minute. The sediment from each tube was checked for protozoan
parasite by observation under microscope using the x10 and x40 objectives. The result showed
high degree of contamination in the area especially on the samples obtained from retailers.
Entamoeba histolytica and Necator americanus were found to be the most and least prevalent
parasite contaminants respectively in the area. Although, all the sachet water brands examined
have NAFDAC approval number on them which means that they are certified as safe for
consumption, particles were discovered in some of them. The level of contamination in the study
area was found to be significant at p < 0.05. The general attitudes of hawkers (retailers) were
attributed to the contamination of sachet water through improper handling and storage, as well as
poor sanitary habit which eventually poses a serious threat to the health of the unsuspecting and
vulnerable consumers. While consumers should properly clean the cellophane packet, especially
the area to be cut open before drinking and desist from patronizing hawkers who are generally
dirty and with unsanitary commercial habits, NAFDAC as regulatory body should also intensify
efforts in the routine monitoring of activities in the packaged drinking water industry.