The Mississippi Delta faces severe sanitation problems, contributing to frequent intestinal infections among residents, especially children.
Studies reveal a significant prevalence of intestinal parasites, including hookworm and roundworm, linked to contaminated water sources.
Research indicates that about 38% of local children tested positive for parasitic infections, exacerbated by poor wastewater management.
Community advocates highlight the long-standing inequities in infrastructure affecting predominantly Black neighborhoods, resulting from historical neglect.
The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality acknowledges challenges in maintaining wastewater systems, noting the need for federal funding to address these issues.