Contamination of Shallow Wells by Latrines in Kaindakwa, Siaya County

Adequate supply of safe drinking water is universally recognized as a basic human need. The number of people without access to safe water in urban areas has sharply risen in developing countries as a result of rapid urbanization. Human excreta and the lack of adequate personal and domestic hygiene have been implicated in the spread of many infectious diseases. It is estimated that one-third of deaths in developing countries are caused by the consumption of contaminated water. The prevalence of pit latrine use is growing in developing countries and there is heightened concern about the negative impacts on drinking water. Countries where pit latrine use is prevalent also tend to have high rates of groundwater use. Contamination of ground water sources by pit latrines has directly been linked to the proximity between the two. The study aimed at determining the extent of contamination of shallow wells which is mainly perceived to be due to close proximity of the pit latrines.

Autorentext

An epidemiologist by profession. Main subjects of expertise include; communicable diseases, bio statistics and epidemiological methods. Experience working as a project intern with Africa Medical Research Foundation (AMREF). Currently working as a public health specialist in Moi University - College of Health Sciences