Description
EVALUATING ONE HEALTH IMPACTS OF WATER CONTAMINATION LINKED TO SANITATION PRACTICES IN AKONOLINGA, CAMEROON
Acha Romanus Tasaah1. , Anastasie Ngono2,3, E. Stephanie Mvodo M.2,3, Jeannette Wogaing4; Fréderic Huneau5, Lila Ferrat5, Alessandra Falchi5
1One Health in Infectious Diseases and Antimicrobial Resistance Programme, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea
2Department of Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness, University of Buea, South West Region, Cameroon
3Foundation of Entrepreneurship and Research Development (FERD), Akonolinga, Centre Region, Cameroon
4Department of Anthropology, Faculty of Letters and Social Sciences, University of Douala, Littoral Region, Cameroon
5Faculty of Science and Technics, University of Corsica Pascal Paoli, Corte 20250, France
Abstract
Introduction/Objectives
One Health approach recognizes that the health of people is closely connected to the health of animals and our shared environment. Water quality and sanitation are crucial factors in safeguarding human and animal health. However, inadequate water management and contaminated water sources can lead to the spread of waterborne diseases such as cholera, diarrhea, dysentery,and typhoid and contribute to Antimicrobial Resistance. Health, a common good must be preserved right from local communities and ground-based solutions needed. The objective of this study was to assess drinking water contamination levels linked to sanitation, hygiene, the presence of animals and provide a comprehensive understanding of the One Health implications of these factors in Akonolinga, Centre Region, Cameroon.
Methodology
The present study took place in November 2023, during the 2nd edition of the One Health Water Africa (OHWA) Field school. OHWA is a consortium of four institutions namely the University of Buea, the University of Douala and the French Institute for Sustainable Development (located in Cameroon) and the University of Corsica Pascal Paoli (in France). The study focused on three villages along the Nyong River. A cross-sectional study design was employed to collect data from 80 households. Water samples were tested at sources and in homes. Samples were analysed for various parameters such as nitrates, nitrites, Escherichia coli and to assess contamination levels. Additionally, sanitation practices and the presence of domestic animals were observed through household surveys and visual inspection.
Results and discussions
Results revealed varying levels of contamination across different water sources. Drinking water collected in households exhibited the highest contamination level. Water sources in Aboe-Bikele had high levels of nitrates, an indicator of excessive use of nitrogen-based fertilizers. The presence of domestic animals sharing a common space with individuals and inadequate latrine conditions were observed to further contribute to water contamination risk. Poor sanitation practices coupled with the presence of stray animals increase the risk of disease transmission and the potential development of antimicrobial resistance.
Conclusions:
This study highlights the urgent need to improve water management, sanitation, hygiene and agricultural practices in Akonolinga. The significant levels of water contamination in households underscore the necessity for enhanced water treatment measures. Addressing inadequate latrine conditions and controlling the movement of animals are crucial in minimizing health and water contamination risks. Overall, this study underlines the importance of community engagement and risk communication of One Health issues and co-construction of possible solutions.
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