Author(s)

Kabeya Theddy Kazadi^1,2, Tshisungu Benoit Beya³, Tshibangu Félicien Ilunga^4,5, Kangueji Dieudonné Tshikez⁵, Tshimbangila Jean Claud Mbuyi¹, Tuengu Jeremie Kazadi¹, Kabila Joseph Luboya^4,5

¹School of Public Health, University of Mwene Ditu, Mwene Ditu, The Democratic Republic of Congo.
²Provincial Health Division, Kabinda, The Democratic Republic of Congo.
³School of Public Health, Morave University, Mwene Ditu, The Democratic Republic of Congo.
⁴Higher Institute of Medical Techniques of Kalenda, Mwene-Ditu, The Democratic Republic of Congo.
⁵Luputa Health District, Luputa, The Democratic Republic of Congo.

Waterborne diseases of infectious origin are very common in developing countries due to lack of appropriate infrastructure. The City of Luputa, although having a drinking water supply system, still records a high rate of incidence of these diseases. This study aimed to identify the factors explaining this situation for suitable solutions. A transversal analytical study was carried out in 1 month in 16 Health Areas of Luputa in the Province of Lomami. The data collected using Kobocollect from the sampled people were analyzed with Epi info version 7.2.2.6 (CDC). The Chi square of independence and the Ficher exact test were used to establish the association between the variables, supplemented by logistic regression to identify the risk factors. In total, 476 respondents participated in the study. 266 of them (55.6%) had suffered from an infectious waterborne disease. 75% of respondents simultaneously used water from standpipes and other sources for drinking. After logistic regression, the factors associated with these diseases were: profession; non-observance of preventive methods against water-borne diseases, observance of hygienic measures; the use of other sources of drinking water and the storage of drinking water in the barrel with lid (p-value < 0.05, 95% CI). Achieving Sustainable Development Goal number 6 by 2030 is only possible in Luputa’s City if several efforts are made. The population needs strong awareness on the exclusive use of water from standpipes and the best water management. Managers of the water supply system must in turn ensure the almost permanent availability of water.

Determinants, Endemicity, Waterborne Infectious Disease, Luputa

Kazadi, K.T., Beya, T.B., Ilunga, T.F., Tshikez, K.D., Mbuyi, T.J.C., Kazadi, T.J. and Luboya, K.J. (2023) Determinants of the Endemicity of Waterborne Infectious Diseases in Luputa in the Province of Lomami in the DRC. Open Access Library Journal, 10, 1-14. doi: 10.4236/oalib.1110813.