The determination of bacterial soil pollution near the impermeable latrines and public area

Abstract

Background: The recent studies of environmental pollution mainly focus on the content of toxic chemicals in the environment. However, air, water, and soil become the source of transmission of pathogenic microorganisms. Therefore, it is necessary to determine the environmental pollution that caused by microorganisms. Aim: To determine the bacterial pollution of soil near the impermeable latrines of some ger area in district and public area. Methods: Sampling was performed that the 1 meters of distance from impermeable latrines and 0-20 cm depth (below the ground level), were used as a shovel and a spatula. Soil samples were transported by using sterile bags and container under the sterile condition and reached to the laboratory within 24 hours. Results: The mean of pollution load index (PLI) was 1.32 (low) in all samples while the bacterial soil pollution determined near the impermeable latrines of ger area. Fecal coliform (thermotolerant coliform) was detected in 51.8%(n=57) and non-fermentative 10.9%(n=12) soil samples among 110 samples. In addition, enterococci and salmonella were detected in 34.5%(n=38) and 1.0%(n=1) in soil samples of 27th of Bayanzurkh district, 6th and 7th of Songinokhairkhan district, respectively. Fecal coliform (thermotolerant coliform) was detected in 51.4%(n=36) and non-fermentative 8.57%(n=6) soil samples among 70 samples. In addition, enterococci were detected in 30%(n=21) soil samples. However, more serious pathogenic bacteria which is Salmonella were detected in the 1.4%(n=1) samples public area. Conclusion: The use of impermeable latrines in ger areas reduces bacterial contamination of the soil.