ASSESSMENT OF WATER HANDLING PRACTICES IN HOUSEHOLDS AND RELATED HEALTH IMPACTS: A CASE STUDY IN AL- EIZARIYA AND ABU DIS
Date
2026-05-12
Authors
Roaa Awlad Mohammedrayan
Qamar Abu Rayan
Sondos Ozbaki
Ibrahim Ghannam
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Deanship of Scientific Research - Al-Quds University
Abstract
Access to safe drinking water is fundamental to public health and sustainable development. This study evaluated household water handling practices and their associated health impacts in Abu Dis and Al-Eizariya, Jerusalem Governorate. A descriptive cross-sectional approach was adopted, involving the collection of twenty water samples from household storage tanks and public supply points. Microbiological analysis using M-Endo and M-FC agar indicated that all samples were free from total and fecal coliforms (0 CFU/100 mL), thus conforming to World Health Organization standards. Survey data revealed variations in household practices: 89.5% covered their storage containers, 73.7% used separate vessels for drinking water, and only 25% utilized additional treatment methods. While 80% of participants reported no waterborne illnesses, concerns about contamination remained linked to storage practices. These results suggest that water sources in the study area were microbiologically safe at the time of sampling, but underscore the need for ongoing monitoring and community awareness to ensure sustained water quality and prevent future health risks.