Abstract.
Studies were conducted to assess the physical, chemical, and bacteriological qualities of drinking water in Mbandjock, Cameroon. Study results indicated that the vast majority of drinking water sources possessed acceptable physical and chemical qualities, according to the World Health Organization standards. However, microbiological analyses revealed that only the waters treated by the Cameroon National Water Company (SNEC) and the Sugar Processing Company (SOSUCAM) were acceptable for human consumption. All spring and well waters presented evidences of fecal contamination from human and/or animal origin. Water from these sources should, therefore, be treated before use for drinking. Since the majority of the population gets its water from wells and springs, there is an urgent need to develop a health education program, within the framework of primary health care, with respect to environmental sanitation and safe drinking water supply in this community.
Similar content being viewed by others
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Additional information
Received: 18 June 1996/Revised: 1 November 1996
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Tchounwou, P., Lantum, D., Monkiedje, A. et al. The Urgent Need for Environmental Sanitation and a Safe Drinking Water Supply in Mbandjock, Cameroon . Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 33, 17–22 (1997). https://doi.org/10.1007/s002449900217
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s002449900217