Bacteriological Quality of Household Drinking Water and Its Association with Diarrheal Diseases Among Under-Five Children in Ilorin, Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Unsafe drinking water remains a major contributor to diarrheal diseases among children under five, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

Aim: This study assessed the bacteriological quality of household drinking water and its association with diarrheal morbidity among under-five children in Ilorin, Nigeria.

Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted. A sample size of 288 households was calculated using Cochran’s formula; however, 240 households were successfully surveyed and included in the final analysis. Data on water sources, handling practices, and recent diarrheal episodes were collected using structured questionnaires. Water samples were analyzed for Escherichia coli and total coliforms using membrane filtration techniques. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics at a 95% confidence level.

Results: E. coli contamination was detected in 22.9% of samples, while 34.6% contained total coliforms. The two-week prevalence of diarrhea was 28.3%. A significant association was found between contaminated water and diarrheal disease (χ² = 17.89, p < 0.001). Children consuming untreated water were more likely to develop diarrhea (AOR = 2.75; 95% CI: 1.58–4.80).

Conclusion: Microbiologically unsafe drinking water remains a key determinant of childhood diarrhea.