Interventions for safe water: strategies for controlling enteric pathogens in private wells and implications for...

Contamination of private wells poses a public health concern, especially in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMIC) where access to water treatment is limited. This systematic review evaluated 23 studies that investigated interventions in reducing E. coli, Cryptosporidium spp., and Giardia spp. in private wells, including shallow wells, boreholes, and tubewells. Interventions assessed included plant-based coagulants, chlorination, filtration systems, reverse osmosis (RO), ultraviolet (UV) disinfection, and protective barriers to prevent contamination from surface runoff and nearby contamination sources. The effectiveness of the interventions varied depending on geographic, socio-economic, and infrastructural factors. Plant extracts like Moringa oleifera demonstrated success in rural settings, while advanced technologies were more effective in high-income countries. The review stressed the importance of tailoring interventions to specific contexts, emphasizing the need for community engagement, ongoing monitoring, and preventive approaches. This review underscores the need for integrating technical, social, and economic strategies to improve water quality in private wells, particularly for vulnerable communities.