AWWA QTC97118

Cryptosporidium parvum is ubiquitous in surface waters, is relatively resistant to chlorine disinfection at standard doses and has potentially fatal consequences for immunocompromised individuals who become infected. Consequently, it is a critical issue for the water industry. New, improved, simple and reliable analytical methods are needed which not only detect C. parvum but also determine the source of the contamination and the infectivity of the oocysts. This paper discusses the application of molecular based technologies to the detection, viability assessment and infectivity determination of waterborne Cryptosporidium. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based methods were used to detect oocysts in environmental waters by targeting DNA and to assess viability by targeting RNA. An assay combining in vitro cell culture of C. parvum combined with PCR-based detection and enumeration of infectious organisms was developed.

Product Details

Published:

01/01/1997

ISBN(s):

0898679583

Number of Pages:

13

File Size:

1 file , 56 KB