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Occurrence of pathogenic microorganisms in small drinking-water systems in Costa Rica
Kenia Barrantes1, Luz Chacón1, Eric Morales1
1Infection and Nutrition Section, Health Research Institute, University of Costa Rica, P.O. Box 11501-2060, San José, Costa Rica
Journal of Water and Health
|November 11, 2022
Summary
Drinking water quality in Costa Rica was assessed for microbial contaminants. Somatic coliphages in water were linked to diarrheal disease outbreaks, indicating their utility as an indicator for public health risks.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Microbiology
- Public Health
- Water Quality Assessment
Background:
- Drinking water quality is crucial for public health, especially in regions with decentralized water systems.
- Microbial contamination of water sources poses a significant risk for waterborne diseases.
- Administrative Associations for Water and Sewer Systems (ASADAS) manage water supply in many rural areas.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the microbiological quality of drinking water from 20 ASADAS in Costa Rica over two years (2018-2019).
- To identify potential microbial indicators of fecal contamination and associated health risks.
- To investigate the relationship between specific microbial agents and diarrheal disease incidence.
Main Methods:
- Collected and analyzed drinking water samples from 20 ASADAS across three distinct biogeographic regions.
- Tested for Rotavirus (RV), somatic coliphages, fecal coliforms, and Escherichia coli.
- Correlated microbial findings with regional climate patterns (rainy/dry seasons) and diarrheal case data.
Main Results:
- Higher concentrations of fecal coliforms and E. coli were found in surface water sources in region 3 (tropical rainy and dry).
- Rotavirus (RV) was detected in 24/296 samples from regions 2 and 3, predominantly during the dry and transition seasons.
- Somatic coliphages were present in all regions, with higher levels in region 2, and showed a significant correlation with diarrheal outbreaks.
Conclusions:
- Drinking water sources in region 3 are more susceptible to fecal contamination.
- Somatic coliphages serve as a reliable indicator for the presence of diarrheal disease cases in a region.
- Monitoring somatic coliphages can aid in assessing and managing public health risks associated with water quality.
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