Incidence and Fate of Viruses in Sludges

Abstract

The study of the occurrence and inactivation of viruses in sludge is currently a topic of much research. Ward and Ashley (1,2,3,4) have published numerous papers concerning the mechanisms of virus inactivation. Several recent conferences emphasizing the incidence and fate of pathogens in sludges include: “Risk Assessment and Health Effects of Land Application of Municipal Wastewater and Sludges”(5); “Sludge Management Disposal and Utilization”(6); “Acceptable Sludge Disposal Techniques”(7); “National Conference on Composting of Municipal Residues and Sludges”(8); and “Radiation for a Clean Environment”(9). This paper represents the results of a literature evaluation considering the types and number of viruses to be expected in raw and treated sludges; the efficiency of virus removal by primary, secondary, and sludge handling treatment methods; and the occurrence and persistence of viruses in sludge and soil systems.