Borehole water: a potential health risk to rural communities in South Africa

Sporadic outbreaks of diarrhoea in children in the Vhembe rural areas could be an indication of contamination in drinking water sources. In areas where improved water sources are used, not all rural households experience the benefits of these improved water sources. Water samples were collected from boreholes in three Wards in the Vhembe District to determine microbiological risks over a five-month period. The Water Point Mapping tool was used to indicate the borehole distribution. Water samples were taken from each functional borehole and analysed for Total coliform and E. coli counts, Electrical Conductivity, pH and Temperature. A multiplex PCR protocol was used for identification of pathogenic E. coli . A total of 125 boreholes were identified of which only 12 were functional. Seven boreholes tested positive for Total coliforms and E. coli counts. Four boreholes (33.3%) tested positive for diarrhoeagenic E. coli . Fifty-eight percent (58%) of water samples were without health risks, 17% were low risk and 25% could cause infection according to the South African water quality standards. This study indicated the importance of the role of the Municipalities and the maintenance plans that needs to ensure that all boreholes are functional and provide safe drinking water to the rural communities.