Bacteriological Analysis of Freshwater Ecosystems in the Prefectures of Kindia and Forécariah-Republic of Guinea

Abstract

Poor-quality surface water with microbial contamination intended and/or used for recreational purposes is implicated in many infectious diseases worldwide, particularly in countries where waste management systems are currently failing. A prospective study was conducted from June to December 2022. Classical bacteriological techniques were used during the analysis of samples. Thirty-four (34) samples were collected from surface waters used for recreation. In Kindia, the results indicated that the intestinal enterococci (IE) had values exceeding the WHO thresholds in rivers, streams, and creeks at 5.88% each, and in brooks at 82.35%. Regarding E. coli, the same trend was observed with 70.83% contamination in brooks. In the Prefecture of Forécariah, only E. coli was found in brooks and the oceanic branch with 75.00% and 25.00% respectively. The studied waters have been contaminated by fecal matter (fecal germs) of animal and human origin. If urgent and sustainable solutions are not implemented, these water sources would pose a major public health challenge (proliferation of pathogens and antibiotic resistance) in the future.