Analysis of local drinking water for fecal contamination in Solu-Khumbu / Mt. Everest region, Nepal.

Background: To evaluate the drinking water quality in the popular trekking area of Solu-Khumbu Mt. Everest region as a possible source for the high incidence of diarrhea.

Material And Methods: Drinking water samples (n = 80) were collected from whatever primary source the locals/tourists used at altitudes 2,608 to 5,180m; and where possible, also from inside households. Samples were analyzed for fecal contamination using the DelAgua Dual Incubator at 37 °C and 44 °C to detect the total and thermotolerant coliform bacteria. The pH, temperature, turbidity, smell, and taste were also registered.

Results: No thermotolerant bacteria were found but a significant number of specimens contained many colony forming units (CFU) of total coliform bacteria. Household specimens were more often contaminated compared to the water from the primary source.

Conclusion: Data indicate a significant secondary contamination when water was handled and stored in unhygienic containers. Health education programs on water hygiene, sanitation, and the safe handling and storage of water needs improvement. It is strongly recommended that drinking water is disinfected using filter systems, UV-light dispensers or halogens (e.g. chlorine), or a combination of two methods. Although cooking is a common disinfection method here, fuel is scarce. Water was generally safer when collected directly from the primary source in a clean container than from a lodge.