Detection and quantification of viable Ascaris sp and other helminth eggs in sewage sludge

Author(s)

Bastos, Veridiana Karmann ^[1] ; Cutolo, Silvana Audra ^[1] ; Oliveira Doria, Maria do Carmo ^[1] ; Pepe Razzolini, Maria Tereza ^[1]

Affiliation

^[1] Univ Sao Paulo, Dept Environm Hlth, Sch Publ Hlth, BR-01246904 Sao Paulo - Brazil

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH; v. 23, n. 4, p. 352-362, AUG 1 2013.
• Web of Science Citations: 12

Abstract

Some epidemiologic studies conducted in developing countries demonstrated a high incidence of enteroparasites, Ascaris sp. being the most prevalent. Therefore, the use of sewage sludge in agriculture may pose risks to human health. In order to protect public health, a Brazilian regulation has established standards regarding its use in rural areas. The objective of this study was to quantify Ascaris sp. and other helminth eggs in sewage sludge from five wastewater treatment plants from a dense metropolitan region, and also to check compliance with the law. The analysis was carried according to USEPA 2003. A rich parasitological fauna was found, with a prevalence of the eggs of Ascaris sp. (9.55%). The samples analyzed presented a large variety of helminth eggs, and Ascaris sp. proved to be the most prevalent which put in evidence that its application poses public health concerns. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 10/05664-6 - Estimative of probability of infection associate of biosolids utilization as soil amendment using quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA)
• Grantee: Maria Tereza Pepe Razzolini
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants