Quantitative microbial risk assessment of gastrointestinal illness due to recreational exposure to E. coli and enterococci on the southern coasts of the Caspian Sea

Abstract

BackgroundGastrointestinal illness refers to a broad range of diseases that affect the digestive system, including infections caused by bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment (QMRA) is a powerful tool used to evaluate the risks associated with microbial pathogens in various environments. The main objective of this study was to conduct a quantitative assessment of gastrointestinal illnesses that occur as a result of exposure to E. coli and enterococci during recreational activities on the southern coasts of the Caspian Sea. MethodsSamples were collected from the recreational beaches along the border line of the Caspian Sea. The samples were analyzed for the presence and enumeration of E. coli and enterococci using the microplate method and membrane filtration techniques. Then, the annual and daily infection risks were computed using the Monte Carlo simulation approach. ResultsThe results revealed that the risk of daily and annual infections on the coasts of Babolsar was higher than that on the coasts of Sari. Also, in the recreational waters of these beaches, the risk of infection by enterococci was higher than that posed by E. coli. In Babolsar, the average annual infection risk caused by E. coli and enterococci was 0.365 and 1 for children and 0.181 and 0.986 for adults. Also, in Sari, the average annual infection risk caused by E. coli and enterococci was 0.060 and 0.908 for children and 0.027 and 0.815 for adults. In addition, children were more likely than adults to become infected. ConclusionIn light of the study's findings, due to the entry of untreated urban wastewater into the southern part of the Caspian Sea (northern Iran) and the high risk of infectious diseases for children, more control and health measures are necessary for children's swimming.