Distribution and Transport of Fecal Bacteria at Spring Thaw in a Rural Alaskan Community

People living without piped water and sewer can be at increased risk for diseases transmitted by the fecal-oral route. One Alaskan community that relies on hauled water and sewage was studied to determine the pathways of fecal contamination of drinking water and the human environment so that barriers can be established to protect human health. Samples were tested for the fecal indicators Escherichia coli and Enterococcus. Several samples were tested for the pathogens Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium parvum and source tracking methods were employed. Surface water flow transported bacteria within the community during spring thaw and human fecal contamination was detected in town, but flow from the dump did not appear to contribute to contamination in town. Within the home, fecal bacteria were found on water dippers, kitchen counters and floors, and in hand-washing basins. Giardia was found at the dump, but not in water from the river adjacent to the community. Exposure to fecal contamination could be reduced by cleaning up after dogs, carefully disposing of wastewater, and by protecting stored drinking water.