This study investigated the parasitological and bacteriological contamination of sachet drinking water sold in selected markets within Yenagoa metropolis, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. One hundred sachet water samples from five brands across four markets were collected and analyzed. Physical attributes, including labeling, volume, NAFDAC registration, and batch details, were recorded. Parasites were identified using sedimentation techniques, revealing an overall prevalence of 34%. Detected parasites included Ascaris lumbricoides (5%), Entamoeba histolytica (11%), Giardia lamblia (11%), Necator americanus (4%), and Trichuris trichiura (3%), with no significant differences among brands (p > 0.05). Physicochemical parameters mostly complied with WHO standards, except for the pH of two brands. Bacterial contamination was also observed, though differences among species were not significant. The presence of parasites and bacteria highlights potential health risks associated with consuming these sachet waters, emphasizing the urgent need for regular monitoring and stringent quality control to ensure safe drinking water
Mercy Adaeze Otu (Sat,) studied this question.