Mofor Nelson Alakeh^{1, 2,}, Mbene Kenneth³, Njoyim Estella Buleng Tamungang^{2, 4}, Nchofua Festus Biosengazeh², Nkemajen Eugene Asongafac⁴

This study investigated the quality of three main sources of water used in Nteingue community- a village in Santchou municipality of the Menoua division, West Region of Cameroon, in order to determine its suitability for domestic use following World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines. Inhabitants of this locality consume water from these sources without any prior treatment, which can result in health problems if the water sources are contaminated. Three water sources: a spring in Plantain market, a tap (harnessed spring) in Nteingue market, and an open well in Nteingue-Mbouteuc quarter were sampled in the dry and rainy seasons of 2022 and examined for organoleptic, physicochemical and bacteriological parameters using standard methods recommended by WHO. Water samples had acceptable organoleptic characteristics except for the spring in the rainy season which was clear with tiny dark debris. Results of physical parameters revealed moderately acidic to neutral waters (5.6-7.2) with low mineral content, dissolved solids and turbidity. All major ions were within the WHO guideline values. There were significant seasonal differences observed in the variations of the concentrations of HCO₃^- and K⁺ (p <0.05). The water sources were type in both seasons, which are typical of ground water resources. Sampled waters were also acceptable based on water quality indices, exception being the open well which had a poor quality index in the rainy season. Faecal coliforms and specific bacteria (Escherichia coli, Enterobacter, Streptococcus, Vibrio, Salmonella, Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, and Shigella spp) were identified in all sampled waters, suggesting recent contamination of the sources by human or animal faeces. The sources were unfit for domestic use and thus, exposed the population to water-borne diseases such as typhoid, diarrhoea and dysentery. Hence, home treatment methods such as chlorination, filtration, and boiling should be implemented prior to consumption.

domestic water, water quality, faecal coliforms, Nteingue