Individual water supply solutions: issues for environmental health surveillance

Abstract Introduction There are still many challenges concerning the Drinking Water Surveillance in the municipalities, mostly related to individual supply solutions (SAI) which may present quick changes, especially in water stress scenarios. Methods This study analyzed hazards related to SAI recorded in a city at Zona da Mata, Minas Gerais State, integrating data from local report of acute diarrheal disease (DDA). Results From September/2013 to January/2015, 584 SAI were recorded and inspected; 19.8% located at urban area and 80.3% at rural area. Of the total, 92.6% provided water for human consumption, serving 2,323 people. Higher protection and/or care were observed in urban area, where, on the other hand, there was higher occurrence of sources of contamination (being “wastewater” the most frequent). There was statistically significant correlation between the number of SAI and reported cases of DDA (p=0.002) only for urban area. Conclusion The data highlight the need for investments and prioritization of Drinking Water Surveillance actions directed to SAI, since they are not subject to water quality control actions; as well as the increase in population coverage by sanitation services.