Knowledge, Attitudes, And Practices Regarding Waterborne Diseases And Water Purification Among A Selected Rural Community in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa

Abstract

Waterborne infections pose a significant global public health threat, contributing to ap-proximately 4 billion diarrhoea cases and 1.8 million deaths annually. In South Africa, recent cholera outbreaks have highlighted the need for improved community awareness and preparedness regarding waterborne diseases. This study aimed to assess residents' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding waterborne diseases and water purification in the Vhembe District of Limpopo Province, South Africa. A quantitative cross-sectional study design was employed. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered to adults aged 18 years and above residing in Nweli Village, Thohoyandou. The questionnaire assessed participants’ knowledge of waterborne diseases, their attitudes toward water safety and purification methods, and their water-related practices. The instrument was reviewed to ensure content validity, and reliability testing yielded a Cronbach’s alpha value of 0.80, indicating good internal consistency. Ethical approval was obtained, and informed consent was secured from all participants. The findings revealed varying levels of knowledge regarding waterborne diseases, with some participants demonstrating awareness of transmission routes and prevention methods, while others showed limited understanding. Participants also exhibited differ-ing attitudes toward water purification, with some recognising its importance while others showed low perceived risk. The use of household water purification methods was incon-sistent among participants. The study concludes that gaps exist in knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to waterborne disease prevention. These findings highlight the need for targeted public health interventions, including community-based education and awareness programmes, to promote positive attitudes, improve safe water practices, and reduce the burden of waterborne diseases in rural communities.