EVALUATION OF THE IMPACTS OF WATER, SANITATION, AND HYGIENE (WASH) ON COVID-19 SPREAD IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Corona viruses are a large family of viruses that cause illnesses ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases 
such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV) 
(Hayk, 2020). Nigeria, with its large population and high urbanization rate, faces significant challenges in providing 
adequate water, sanitation and hygiene services to its citizens. Many Nigerians lack access to basic hand washing 
facilities with soap and water, which further increases the risk of disease transmission. The government's efforts in 
implementing WaSH programs have been hindered by factors such as weak governance, institutional frameworks, and 
infrastructure. The study focuses on the impact of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WaSH) in curtailing the spread of 
the COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria. It highlights the importance of access to clean water, basic sanitation facilities, 
and good hygiene practices, particularly hand washing, in preventing the transmission of diseases like COVID-19. 
The study emphasizes that without these essential components of WaSH, the risk of outbreaks and the spread of 
diseases is high. Hence, information from this study will provide insights and information to guide policymakers, 
government agencies, and non-governmental organizations in addressing the WaSH needs in Nigeria, with a specific 
focus on the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. It emphasizes the crucial role of clean water, sanitation, and 
hygiene in preventing the spread of diseases and improving the overall health and well-being of the population.