Microbiological analysis of cistern water intended for human consumption in the interior of Goiás, Brazil

Abstract

Water quality is crucial, particularly in rural areas, where contamination by coliforms poses a significant risk in sources such as cisterns. This study evaluated the microbiological quality of 20 cistern water samples intended for human consumption in Silvolândia, Goiás, Brazil, from August to November 2023. Findings indicated significant contamination levels, with many samples exceeding acceptable standards for total and thermotolerant coliforms. A notable inverse correlation was found between the distance of cisterns from septic tanks and contamination levels, suggesting that greater distances typically lead to lower coliform presence. However, several samples at intermediate distances still exhibited high contamination, implying that factors such as cistern construction and local environmental conditions could also affect water quality. All p