Household Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Conditions and Associated Public Health Risks in Omu-Aran, Kwara State

Abstract

Good water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) practices and adequate sanitation infrastructure are essential for promoting public health and safeguarding the environment. This study investigates sanitation infrastructure, WASH knowledge, attitude and practices, water quality and their public health implications in Omu Aran, Nigeria. 423 households were selected and surveyed using structured questionnaire to assess sanitation conditions and perceptions. Water samples from wells, boreholes, and streams were analysed for pH, dissolved oxygen, heavy metals, and nutrients across dry and rainy seasons. Findings reveal that sanitation infrastructure is inadequate, with 42.5% using pit latrines and 30.83% practicing open defecation, indicating poor water quality and high malaria (56.67%) and typhoid (17.5%) prevalence. The absence of adequate solid waste disposal services for 56.67% of respondents indicates high risks of environmental contamination. Well and borehole water exhibit alkaline pH levels above WHO guidelines, with high concentrations of cadmium and iron in all water sources posing health risks. The high phosphate concentration in streams increases eutrophication risks. The study concluded that sanitation infrastructure and water quality in Omu-Aran is in a critical state requiring urgent intervention. Government should invest in modern sanitation and water systems, community-led maintenance programs, and individual adoption of water treatment practices.