Ceramic water filters impregnated with silver nanoparticles as a point-of-use water-treatment intervention for HIV-positive individuals in Limpopo Province, South Africa: A pilot study of technological performance and human health benefits
Document Type
Article
Date of Original Version
1-1-2014
Abstract
Waterborne pathogens present a significant threat to people living with the human immunodeficiency virus (PLWH). This study presents a randomized, controlled trial that evaluates whether a household-level ceramic water filter (CWF) intervention can improve drinking water quality and decrease days of diarrhea in PLWH in rural South Africa. Seventy-four participants were randomized in an intervention group with CWFs and a control group without filters. Participants in the CWF arm received CWFs impregnated with silver nanoparticles and associated safe-storage containers. Water and stool samples were collected at baseline and 12 months. Diarrhea incidence was self-reported weekly for 12 months. The average diarrhea rate in the control group was 0.064 days/week compared to 0.015 days/week in the intervention group (p < 0.001, Mann-Whitney). Median reduction of total coliform bacteria was 100% at enrollment and final collection. CWFs are an acceptable technology that can significantly improve the quality of household water and decrease days of diarrhea for PLWH in rural South Africa. © IWA Publishing 2014.
Publication Title, e.g., Journal
Journal of Water and Health
Volume
12
Issue
2
Citation/Publisher Attribution
Abebe, Lydia S., James A. Smith, Sophia Narkiewicz, Vinka Oyanedel-Craver, Mark Conaway, Alukhethi Singo, Samie Amidou, Paul Mojapelo, Julia Brant, and Rebecca Dillingham. "Ceramic water filters impregnated with silver nanoparticles as a point-of-use water-treatment intervention for HIV-positive individuals in Limpopo Province, South Africa: A pilot study of technological performance and human health benefits." Journal of Water and Health 12, 2 (2014): 288-300. doi: 10.2166/wh.2013.185.