Bacteriological quality of water and water borne diseases in Bangalore –a longitudinal study

Abstract

In developing countries diarrhea diseases take a big toll which can be  prevented by adequate supply of safe drinking water. Thus a longitudinal study was taken up to determine the morbidity due to water borne diseases and bacteriological quality of water.150 houses in two different areas, one supplied by bore well and other by tap water was selected by modified cluster sampling. Weekly morbidity details collected. Monthly water samples were assessed for bacteriological quality from main supply, household storage and
morbidity reported houses. The difference in proportion of potable and non potable water at storage points was statistically significant. The overall incidence rate of target diseases was 3.58%,majority were diaarrhoel diseases with increased incidence in children less than five years.

Key words: Bacteriological quality, diarrhea, potable water, surveillance, household.