MICROBIOLOGICAL QUALITY AND LEAD LEVELS OF RAIN WATER HARVESTED FROM THREE MAJOR CITIES OF AKWA IBOM STATE

This study analysed the microbiology and lead levels of water obtained from three different locations within Akwa Ibom State. Rain water samples were harvested free falling using aseptic procedure in Eket (A), Ibeno (B), and Uyo (C). Samples were inoculated on Nutrient agar for total Heterotrophic bacteria count (THBC), Eosin methylene blue agar for total coliform count (TCC) and Thiosulphate citrate bile salt agar for total vibro count (TVC). Microbiological counts of harvested rainwater recorded total heterotrophic bacterial counts of (x102 cfu/ml): 7.9 for A, 6.8 for B, and 6.3 for C. Total coliform count was (x 102 cfu/ml); 5.0 for B, followed by A with 4.8 and C 4.1 Total fungal count was B (5.3), A (1.1) and 0.5 for C. Bacterial isolates identified and their frequencies were (%): Pseudomonas sp. (23.2), Enterococcus sp. (19.3) Klebsiella sp. (17.1), Salmonella sp. (14.6), Micrococcus sp. (1.3), Staphylococcus sp. (9.2) and 2.2 for Escherichia coli. Fungal isolates were Aspegillus sp. (88.4), Pencillium sp. (8.7) and Rhizopus sp. (2.9). The lead concentrations of harvested rain samples revealed A as having the highest with 0.329 + 0.001 (mg/L), C with 0.165 + 0.001 (mg/L) and B 0.051 + 0.003 (mg/L) being the least. The result of this study, shows the presence of contaminant in rainwater. Bacteria found in rainwater are potential pathogens which have implications in public health issues. Lead content also poses a threat to health. Therefore, proper examination of rainwater should be done before consumption.