Molecular Detection and Diversity of Enteric Viruses in Drinking Water Sources in Plateau State

Enteric viruses constitute a significant but under-monitored component of waterborne disease risk in Nigeria, as conventional bacteriological water quality indicators do not detect viral contamination. This study molecularly detects and characterises enteric virus diversity in drinking water sources in Plateau State, North Central Nigeria. Borehole, well, and surface water samples were collected from rural and peri-urban communities in Jos North, Barkin Ladi, and Riyom LGAs across two seasons. Viral concentration was performed using ultrafilter membrane concentration, and nucleic acid extraction was followed by RT-PCR and PCR for norovirus GI and GII, rotavirus, adenovirus, hepatitis A virus, and enterovirus. Enteric viruses were detected in 41 percent of all water samples. Norovirus GII and rotavirus were the most prevalent, each detected in 22 percent of positive samples. Adenovirus was detected in 18 percent. Bacteriologically compliant water sources tested positive for enteric viruses in 28 percent of cases, demonstrating the inadequacy of bacterial indicators for viral risk prediction. Seasonal analysis showed higher viral detection in wet season samples. The study fills a critical gap in Plateau State water quality surveillance data and advocates for addition of viral monitoring to the national drinking water quality framework, particularly in communities reporting recurring gastroenteritis clusters. Keywords: enteric viruses, drinking water, Plateau State, norovirus, waterborne disease