Selection of Practical Indicator Systems for Monitoring the Virological Quality of Potable Water, Wastewater, Solid Waste, Shellfish, Fish and Crops

Abstract

The actual detection of viruses or the use of an indicator system or systems to assess the presence of pathogenic viruses in contaminated environments is essential for the protection of human health. Herein are considered the possible surrogate relationships between pathogenic viruses and bacterial indicators of fecal pollution in the diverse enviroments of potable water, wastewater, solid waste, shellfish, fish and crops. Assessments are made concerning the reliability of the indicator to identify in these diverse environments viral presence. It is concluded that thus far no one has demonstrated a convincing relationship between the numbers and/or types of different indicator bacteria and the pathogenic viruses themselves, and that the best indicator of viral presence is the actual detection of the virus itself. Nevertheless, the search should continue for more acceptable alternatives which would eliminate the need for the more difficult and time consuming direct testing of pathogenic virus presence.