Microbial safety of community water sources in Mbouo-Bandjoun, Cameroon: a preliminary assessment

Access to safe drinking water remains a critical challenge in sub-Saharan Africa. This pilot study conducted a preliminary assessment of the microbiological quality of drinking water sources in Magom, Mbieng, and Yom (Mbouo-Bandjoun, Cameroon). A cross-sectional design was employed in which 50 water samples (44 boreholes and 6 wells) were analyzed for physicochemical and microbiological quality. Microbiological assessment included total viable count (TVC), coliform quantification, and culture-based identification. The findings revealed widespread bacteriological contamination: 92.0% of the samples exhibited high total viable counts (TVC ≥106 colony-forming units [CFU]/mL) and 88.0% were contaminated with coliforms. Biochemical profiling indicated the presumed presence of Escherichia coli in 84% of sources, confirming extensive fecal contamination. While physicochemical parameters were largely within acceptable limits, statistical analysis identified significant risk factors: proximity to latrine pits (<20 m) and acidic/neutral pH for the total coliform presence, and proximity to agricultural plantations for high TVC. Despite the predominance of modern protected boreholes, drinking water sources in Mbouo-Bandjoun are heavily contaminated, posing a serious risk to public health. Urgent interventions, including enforcing protective distances for latrines and improving community sanitation, are needed.