Project #4990

Feasibility of Collecting Pathogens in Wastewater During Outbreaks

$63,000
Completed
Principal Investigator
Krista
Wigginton
Research Manager
Ms. Julie Minton
Contractor
University of Michigan
Microbes & Pathogens
Reuse: Direct Potable
Reuse: Indirect Potable
Reuse: Potable
Risk Assessment

Abstract

An accurate understanding of pathogen concentrations in wastewater is important for developing criteria for wastewater treatment. This is particularly critical for wastewater that is used as a potable water source. This project assessed the feasibility of linking the wastewater concentrations of Cryptosporidium species, human norovirus, and human adenovirus to illness prevalence in communities. Project results were integrated into a model to predict wastewater concentrations given community prevalence and expected fecal shedding rates. Research partner: California State Water Resources Control Board. Published in 2021.