Examination Of Escherichia Coli Bacteria On Several Clean Water Samples Taken In The BTKL-PP 1 Medan Microbiology Laboratory

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Introduction

Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria are one of the most common contaminants found in clean water, which can come from various sources such as well water, rainwater, and groundwater. The presence of E. coli in clean water is a significant concern, as this bacterium can cause digestive tract infections, including diarrhea, which has the potential to threaten public health. Therefore, it is essential to conduct routine checks on clean water quality, especially to identify the existence of E. coli contamination. In this study, we aimed to determine the number of E. coli bacteria contained in clean water samples taken in the BTKL-PP Microbiology Laboratory Class 1 Medan.

Research Purposes

The primary objective of this study was to assess the quality of clean water used by the community by examining the presence of E. coli bacteria in water samples. By conducting this examination, we expected to provide useful information in evaluating the safety of clean water for consumption. The study aimed to determine the number of E. coli bacteria contained in clean water samples taken from three different locations, namely well water, rainwater, and groundwater.

Research Methods

Clean water samples were examined using the Most Probable Number (MPN) method, which is a standard procedure commonly used to determine the amount of microorganisms in water samples. This method has been recognized by the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia. The examination was carried out in the BTKL-PP Medan microbiology laboratory. The MPN method involves a series of dilutions and incubations to determine the number of E. coli bacteria present in the water sample.

Research Results

Based on the results of the examination, the following data were obtained:

  • Sample with number 975/B/AB/21/02/2017 showed the amount of E. coli as many as 430 MPN/100ml.
  • Sample with number 978/B/AB/21/02/2017 recorded the amount of E. coli less than 1.8 MPN/100ml.
  • Sample with number 979/B/AB/21/02/2017 also showed the amount of E. coli less than 1.8 MPN/100ml.

In accordance with the Regulation of the Minister of Health of the Republic of Indonesia No. 416/MENKES/PER/IX/1990, the maximum level of E. coli bacteria allowed in clean water is 0. Thus, the result of a sample 975/B/AB/21/02/2017 clearly shows that the level of E. coli exceeds the limit Safe, while samples 978/B/AB/21/02/2017 and 979/B/AB/21/02/2017 cannot be confirmed safe.

Discussion

The presence of E. coli bacteria in clean water is a significant concern, as this bacterium can cause digestive tract infections, including diarrhea, which has the potential to threaten public health. The results of this study indicate that the clean water sample with number 975/B/AB/21/02/2017 does not meet the water quality requirements stipulated by the Regulation of the Minister of Health of the Republic of Indonesia. This is because the level of E. coli in this sample exceeds the maximum limit allowed.

Conclusion

From the results of the examination conducted, it can be concluded that the clean water that is tested with sample number 975/B/AB/21/02/2017 does not meet the water quality requirements stipulated by the Regulation of the Minister of Health of the Republic of Indonesia. Meanwhile, although the sample 978/B/AB/21/02/2017 and 979/B/AB/21/02/2017 showed lower results, further supervision needs to be carried out to ensure the safety of consumption. This study provides an important picture of the existence of E. coli bacteria in clean water and the need for prevention steps to maintain public health from the potential risks caused by water contamination.

Recommendations

Based on the results of this study, the following recommendations are made:

  • Further supervision needs to be carried out to ensure the safety of consumption of clean water.
  • Prevention steps need to be taken to maintain public health from the potential risks caused by water contamination.
  • The Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia needs to review and update the Regulation of the Minister of Health of the Republic of Indonesia No. 416/MENKES/PER/IX/1990 to ensure that it is in line with the latest scientific knowledge and technology.

Limitations of the Study

This study has several limitations, including:

  • The sample size was limited to three clean water samples.
  • The study only examined the presence of E. coli bacteria in clean water and did not investigate other types of microorganisms that may be present.
  • The study did not investigate the source of the E. coli bacteria in the clean water samples.

Future Research Directions

Future research directions include:

  • Investigating the presence of other types of microorganisms in clean water.
  • Examining the source of E. coli bacteria in clean water.
  • Developing new methods for detecting E. coli bacteria in clean water.
  • Investigating the impact of E. coli bacteria on public health.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study provides an important picture of the existence of E. coli bacteria in clean water and the need for prevention steps to maintain public health from the potential risks caused by water contamination. The results of this study indicate that the clean water sample with number 975/B/AB/21/02/2017 does not meet the water quality requirements stipulated by the Regulation of the Minister of Health of the Republic of Indonesia. Further supervision needs to be carried out to ensure the safety of consumption of clean water.

Q: What is Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria?

A: Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a type of bacteria that is commonly found in the human gut. However, it can also be found in the environment, including in clean water. E. coli bacteria can cause digestive tract infections, including diarrhea, which has the potential to threaten public health.

Q: Why is E. coli bacteria a concern in clean water?

A: E. coli bacteria can contaminate clean water through various sources, including human waste, animal waste, and contaminated soil. The presence of E. coli in clean water is a significant concern because it can cause waterborne diseases, including diarrhea, which can be life-threatening, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, and people with weakened immune systems.

Q: How can E. coli bacteria be detected in clean water?

A: E. coli bacteria can be detected in clean water using various methods, including the Most Probable Number (MPN) method, which is a standard procedure commonly used to determine the amount of microorganisms in water samples. This method involves a series of dilutions and incubations to determine the number of E. coli bacteria present in the water sample.

Q: What is the maximum level of E. coli bacteria allowed in clean water?

A: According to the Regulation of the Minister of Health of the Republic of Indonesia No. 416/MENKES/PER/IX/1990, the maximum level of E. coli bacteria allowed in clean water is 0. This means that any level of E. coli bacteria present in clean water is considered a health risk.

Q: What are the symptoms of E. coli infection?

A: The symptoms of E. coli infection can include:

  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal cramps
  • Vomiting
  • Fever
  • Blood in stool

Q: How can E. coli infection be prevented?

A: E. coli infection can be prevented by:

  • Using safe and clean water for drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene
  • Avoiding contact with contaminated water or soil
  • Practicing good hygiene, including washing hands regularly
  • Avoiding eating undercooked or raw meat, especially beef
  • Avoiding eating unpasteurized dairy products

Q: What should I do if I suspect that I have been exposed to E. coli bacteria?

A: If you suspect that you have been exposed to E. coli bacteria, you should:

  • Seek medical attention immediately
  • Provide your healthcare provider with information about your exposure to E. coli bacteria
  • Follow the treatment recommendations provided by your healthcare provider

Q: Can E. coli bacteria be treated?

A: Yes, E. coli bacteria can be treated with antibiotics. However, it is essential to follow the treatment recommendations provided by your healthcare provider and to complete the full course of treatment to ensure that the infection is fully cleared.

Q: Can E. coli bacteria be prevented in the long term?

A: Yes, E. coli bacteria can be prevented in the long term by:

  • Practicing good hygiene, including washing hands regularly
  • Avoiding contact with contaminated water or soil
  • Using safe and clean water for drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene
  • Avoiding eating undercooked or raw meat, especially beef
  • Avoiding eating unpasteurized dairy products

Q: What is the role of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia in preventing E. coli bacteria in clean water?

A: The Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia plays a crucial role in preventing E. coli bacteria in clean water by:

  • Developing and enforcing regulations to ensure the safety of clean water
  • Providing education and awareness programs to the public about the risks of E. coli bacteria in clean water
  • Conducting regular monitoring and testing of clean water to detect the presence of E. coli bacteria
  • Providing support and resources to healthcare providers to treat E. coli infections.