Evaluation of household drinking water filter distribution programmes in Haiti

Household water treatment can reduce diarrhoeal disease in populations without safe water access. We evaluated five programmes that distributed biosand, ceramic, or Sawyer household water filters in Haiti after the 2010 earthquake. We conducted household surveys, collected water samples, and tested water quality at ~50 houses from each programme. Across programmes, self-reported filter use ranged from 27-78%; confirmed use (met reported use and showed the filter with water in it) ranged from 20-76%; and, effective use (stored water quality was improved to international guideline values using the filter) ranged from 0-54%. More successful programmes: 1) distributed an effective technology; 2) provided safe storage; 3) required cash investment; 4) provided initial training; 5) provided follow-up; 6) provided supply-chain access; 7) targeted households relying on contaminated water sources; and, 8) had experience working in the local context. These findings suggest that well implemented programmes can result in sustained filter use in Haiti.