Pollution of irrigation water in East Nile Delta, Egypt: Physicochemical and parasitological studies

Background: Irrigation water quality is important for the cultivation of safe food products and suitable soil for vegetables and fruits. Objective: To evaluate the irrigation water quality in Sharkia Governorate, Egypt; for possible parasitological contamination. Material and Methods: A water sample (2-3 liters) was collected monthly from the main 5 irrigation canals in Sharkia Governorate (total = 60). They were examined physiochemically including pH, turbidity, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved salts (TDS), and heavy metals. Samples were also microfiltered, centrifuged, and washed. Both supernatant and sediment of each water sample were microscopically examined for parasitic pollution by direct, iodine stained smears, and modified Ziehl-Neelsen method. Results: Physicochemically, samples showed seasonal variation with increased EC and TDS in the winter, whereas heavy metals were recorded in low permissible levels. All canals showed parasitic contamination, where Cryptosporidium oocysts, and Giardia cysts were the most frequent parasites detected in all irrigation canals. The highest prevalence was recorded in summer and spring. Conclusion: Our results showed that monitoring irrigation water quality is essential for maintaining a safe food supply and avoiding harmful health risks.