Molecular Epidemiology of Acute Diarrheal Diseases and the Influence of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Conditions Among Vulnerable Populations in Benue South Senatorial District, Nigeria

Abstract

This research investigate the molecular epidemiology of acute diarrheal disease and its influence of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) conditions among vulnerable populations in the Benue South Senatorial District (BSSD), Nigeria. Diarrheal diseases remains the significant public health burden, especially in low-resource settings where inadequate WASH services facilitate pathogen transmission. This study aims to identifies a key bacterial and viral pathogens, characterize their molecular profiles, and assess the local WASH environment’s role in disease prevalence. Using a cross-sectional field sampling, a stool analysis with multiplex PCR, and environmental water quality assessment, the study integrates molecular diagnostics with epidemiological data. Results reveal a high prevalence of rotavirus and diarrheagenic Escherichia coli pathotypes, with the a notable molecular diversity. Poor WASH conditions—manifested as fecal contamination of water sources and open defecation are significantly associated with pathogen occurrence. These findings underscores an urgent need for a targeted WASH interventions, including an infrastructure improvement, behavioral change campaigns, and the introduction of rotavirus vaccination in the region. The study contributes critically usefu data to inform public health policies aimed at sustainably reducing diarrheal disease burden in BSSD and similar settings.