Assessment of the microbiological quality of water in public fountains in Cascavel – Paraná

Abstract

Water quality is an essential factor for public health, and contamination by pathogenic microorganisms represents a direct risk to the population. In Cascavel (Paraná), several public fountains used collectively have a history of microbiological contamination. This study aimed to assess the potability of public fountains in Cascavel by identifying the presence of total coliforms and Escherichia coli and relating the results to climatic, seasonal, and spatial factors. A total of 141 water samples were analyzed, collected from 14 public fountains and two watercourses between October 2019 and April 2025. The presence of total coliforms was detected in 93.6% of the samples, and E. coli in 38.3%, classifying all fountains as unsuitable for human consumption. The variables “month” and “season” showed a significant influence on the presence of total coliforms, while the mean maximum temperature was correlated with the occurrence of E. coli. The fountains with the highest contamination levels were located in the urbanized basins of the Iguaçu and Piquiri Rivers. The results demonstrate persistent fecal contamination and a high sanitary risk, indicating the need for preventive measures, deactivation of critical points, regular publications of monitoring reports, and stronger public policies for sanitation and protection of urban springs.