Bacteriological and physicochemical analysis of water from different sources in a rural community of Jos South Local Government Area (LGA), Plateau State. Nigeria

Abstract Background Clean water is essential for the health and survival of all life forms. Surface and underground water polluted by microbes and chemicals exacerbates issues of water scarcity. This continues to negatively affect the well-being of most people in developing countries like Nigeria and K-Vom, in Plateau State. Thus, this study aimed to determine the bacteriological and physicochemical parameters of water samples from borehole, tap, well, and rain water in K-Vom community of Jos South Local Government area. Methods Water samples from five locations underwent detailed analysis. Coliform presence was assessed using Eosin methylene blue agar and various equipment were used to assess physicochemical parameters like pH, temperature, turbidity, Phosphates, Sulphates, Nitrates, total hardness, total suspended solids, COD, and BOD following standard guidelines as specified by the U.S Environmental Protection Agency. Results Escherichia coli dominated as the most prominent organisms, indicating bacterial contamination. Tap water (e.g., NVRI compound) recorded the least Total Heterotrophic Bacterial (THB) count of 1.2x102 and 2MPN/100ml for Total Coliform Count (TCC), while Well water sources, particularly those from Angwan Madugu, had the highest contamination, with a THB count of 8.5x104 and 800-1500MPN/100ml for Coliforms. Physicochemical parameters generally complied with WHO limits, except for Total Suspended Solids (TSS) and Nitrates (Means: 0.14mg/L, 74.9mg/L). Their t-Test values were 2.69 and 2.91, with non-significant p-values (0.075 and 0.062) respectively. BOD also recorded a low t-score (2.94) with a non-significant p-value (0.060). Conclusions Though most Physicochemical conditions met WHO standards, local water sources are generally unfit due to bacterial contamination. Hence, simple water treatment practices are recommended. The study suggests further tests and comprehensive evaluations, extending beyond the locality, for a more thorough understanding of water quality parameters in future investigations.