Contamination of Drinking Water Sources with Zoonotic Pathogens in Rural Communities of Niger State

Shared water sources in rural Nigeria frequently serve both humans and animals, increasing the risk of waterborne zoonotic diseases. This study investigated contamination of drinking water sources with selected zoonotic pathogens in rural communities of Niger State, North Central Nigeria. Water samples were collected from 50 sources including open wells, boreholes, streams, and ponds in five communities. Standard microbiological procedures were employed to detect Escherichia coli, Cryptosporidium oocysts, and Campylobacter species. Physical parameters including turbidity and pH were also measured. A household survey was simultaneously conducted among 100 respondents to assess water use practices and disease burden. Findings showed that 64% of surface water sources and 28% of borehole sources tested positive for E. coli. Cryptosporidium oocysts were identified in 36% of samples collected from water points shared with livestock. Turbidity levels in stream samples exceeded WHO standards in most cases. Respondents reported diarrheal episodes, confirming the link between contaminated water and community health outcomes. The study concludes that inadequate separation of human and animal water access points in rural Niger State creates significant zoonotic disease risk. Recommendations include construction of protected boreholes, fencing of open water bodies, community hygiene education, and routine water quality monitoring programs. Keywords: waterborne zoonosis, drinking water, rural communities, Niger State, contamination