Assessment of Escherichia coli O157:H7 Contamination in Soil and Water Sources Proximal to Abattoirs Within Cross River State, Nigeria

Abattoir activities generate numerous waste and microorganisms that have polluting effects on its environment and consequently could have negative impact on the health of its surrounding residents. This study assessed Escherichia coli O157:H7 contamination on adjourning soil and water sources proximal to Abattoirs within Cross River State, South-Eastern Nigeria. A total of 288 composite soils were collected into sterile polyethene bags. A total of 144 water samples were collected in triplicates aseptically into sterile 200 ml plastic bottles. Standard microbiological and biochemical tests were carried out to isolate and identify E. coli O157:H7 from the samples collected. Results showed that surface and subsurface soil samples closest to abattoir slabs had highest prevalence value (22.92%) which decreased significantly (p<0.05) with increase in distance away from the slabs. Spring water sources close to abattoirs had highest prevalence (15.28%) while least value of 3.47% was obtained from boreholes. Prevalence values differed significantly (p<0.05) among the different water sources. Effluents generated from the abattoir causes contamination when introduced to the adjoining soil and water bodies, making them unsuitable for domestic use. The isolation of E. coli O157:H7 strains further demonstrates the need for adequate waste disposal and treatment