Assessment of Pathogenic Microbial and Heavy Metal Contamination in Stream Waterat Omuhuhechi, Aluu, Nigeria: Health Implications

This study presents a comprehensive assessment of pathogenic microbial and heavy metal contamination in the Omuhuhechi Stream, Aluu, Rivers State, Nigeria, with a focus on public health implications. The stream, a vital freshwater resource for domestic, agricultural, and livestock use, is increasingly compromised by anthropogenic activities including waste disposal, informal abattoirs, and petroleum-related effluents. Water samples collected from five strategic points during the dry season were analyzed for physicochemical parameters, microbial indicators, and heavy metal concentrations. Results revealed progressive downstream deterioration in water quality, marked by increased turbidity (8.6–13.4 NTU), electrical conductivity (210–425 µS/cm), and reduced dissolved oxygen (4.1–2.4 mg/L), all suggesting heightened organic and ionic pollution. Heavy metal concentrations of lead (0.08–0.21 mg/L), cadmium (0.006–0.011 mg/L), iron (0.74–1.42 mg/L), and chromium (0.06–0.70 mg/L) consistently exceeded WHO permissible limits, indicating significant ecological and toxicological threats. Microbial analysis revealed alarmingly high levels of total coliforms (2.4×10³–4.1×10³ CFU/100 mL), Escherichia coli (180–510 CFU/100 mL), Salmonella spp. (12–36 CFU/100 mL), and Shigella spp. (8–28 CFU/100 mL), signifying fecal contamination and elevated risk of waterborne infections. The findings underscore the urgent need for coordinated interventions in water quality monitoring, sanitation infrastructure, and regulatory enforcement. This study contributes critical empirical evidence to the discourse on freshwater pollution in the Niger Delta and advocates for informed policy frameworks aimed at mitigating environmental health risks and safeguarding water security in vulnerable communities.