Potable water is not readily available in developing countries throughout the world, and effective means of sanitation education is not practiced, particularly in the rural areas. Due to the lack of potable water and good hygiene practices, the World Health Organization, (WHO), has estimated that over three million children, under the age of five, die of diarrhea diseases every year; mainly due to fecal contaminated water. Therefore, it is important to develop safe, effective, and affordable ways of producing potable water. A water purification system is an effective way of raising the quality of water, yet it is necessary that there be the presence of mediating institutions able to train people, and supervise the projects. A family-based water purification system in combination with a hygiene promotion program has been introduced to rural villages throughout the Dominican Republic. Currently, 1500 filter units have been distributed in 33 villages. Chemical and microbiological measurements have been carried out in source and filter water. An epidemiological study has been designed to measure the impact of the presence of the filters in the communities. Surveys show that the communities have accepted and are properly using their filters. The chemical and microbiological measurements present that the filters are producing water free of fecal contamination. Providing a community with a source of potable water alone does not lead to a reduction in the incidence of water-related illnesses. Sanitation education and promoting appropriate hygiene practices will significantly add to the decrease in incidence of diarrhea diseases.
Learning Objectives: To recognize the importance of introducing both a water purification system and sanitation education in the rural areas of developing worlds.
Keywords: International Public Health, Water Quality
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Rollins College,
Eagle Springs Water Co.,
Institute for the Latin American Concern (ILAC)
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.