The relationship between E-coli indicator bacteria in well-water and gastrointestinal illnesses in rural families

Objectives: To determine the relationship between consumption of E. coli co ntaminated well-water and gastrointestinal illness in rural Families. Methods: One hundred and eighty-one families with well-water as a drinking source participated in a one-year follow-up study. Water was tested for E. coli bacteria and health outcomes were monitored for household members, Results: E. coli in well-water was significantly associated with gastrointe stinal illness in family members, however the relationship was modified by the distance from the septic tank to the well. E. coli had an odds ratio of 2.16 [95% CI 1.04, 4.42] if the septic rank was greater than 20 metres fro m the well and : 0.46 [95% CI 0.07, 2.95] if the septic rank was within 20 metres. Conclusions; Consumption of contaminated well-water is associated with gast rointestinal illness E. coli can be a useful marker for detecting wells tha t pose a potential public health problem in rural areas.