Mycological Assessment of Selected Swimming Pools of Recreational Centers around the University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Joseph C. Onyemachi
Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
Onoriode C. Eruteya *
Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Aims: This study was carried out to determine the physicochemical properties and mycological safety of four swimming pools within and around the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
Study Design: Random sampling design was employed.
Place and Duration of Study: Department of Microbiology Laboratory, University of Port Harcourt, between August and October, 2023.
Methodology: A total of 8 samples were collected before and after patronage by patrons from 4 swimming pool. Standard methods were employed for the physicochemical parameters such as pH, turbidity and residual chlorine as well as the enumeration for fungi using potato dextrose agar.
Results: The pH values ranged from 4.50 to 10.00. The Nephelometric Turbidity Unit ranged from 0.45 to 0.90 NTU while the residual chlorine ranged from 0.36 to 355.00 mg/l. The fungal counts ranged from 1 to 9 cfu/ml, while the isolated species on the basis of cultural morphology and microscopic characteristics were identified as species of Fusarium, Penicillium, Aspergillus, Histoplasma, Rhodotorula, Microsporium and Trichophyton.
Conclusion: This study has revealed a potential health risk associated with the use of water of the examined recreational facilities due to none compliance with the WHO standard of < 1 cfu/100ml for fungal and the other parameters, suggesting a public health concern and need for effective interventions.
Keywords: Chlorine, molds, physicochemical properties, swimming pool, yeast
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References
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