Isolation And Characterization Of Human Enteric Pathogens From Ahi, Ogbanelu, Ihie, Agbama, Umudike, Iyi-Amuzukwu, Obeama, Aya, Obugu Drinking Streams In Umuahia.

ABSTRACT

The isolation and characterization of human enteric pathogens from ten different drinking water sources (Ahi-A, Ogbanelu-B, Thie-C, Agbama-D, Umudike-E, Iyi-AiUzukwu-F, Obeama-G, Epiri — A, Aya — I, and Obugu - J) in Umuahia zone were carries out. Escherichia co/i, Salmonella sjp, Shigella spp, Enterobacter spp, Kiebsiella spp, Serratia spp, A;1:ona spp, Citrobacter spp, Providencia spp and Proteus spp were Isolated from the various water samples using the membrane filtration technique. These organisms were characterized. Quantitative analysis conducted with the aid of MacConkey agar medium revealed the presence of microbial populations in each of the samples. Sample E, Umidike stream had the highest microbial load (Fourteen) per I OOml while sample D, Agbama had the lowest microbial load (One) per loom. Isolates on MacConkey agar medium were of circular, convex, glistening and mucoid in appearance. Characteristic pink, pink-red and colourless colonies were also evident. The isolation of E co/i, Sab7ionella and Shigella suggest serious fecal contamination. The presence of other enteric pathogens may not be associated with fecal pollution. The isolation of the enteric pathogens (Escherichia coli, Salmonella, shigella) from Ali, Obeama, Aya and Obugu drinking streams suggest that they were not microbiologically safe for human consumption.