Lubbock Land Treatment System Research and Demonstration Project. Volume 4. Lubbock Infection Surveillance Study (LISS)

摘要

The study was conducted to identify possible adverse effects on human health from slow-rate (sprinkler) land application of wastewater which contained pathogens. An epidemiological study of 478 area residents and farm workers was maintained during the first 20 months of sprinkler operation and during the 20-month period immediately preceding initiation of wastewater irrigation. Blood samples were analyzed for antibody titers to 23 viruses, Legionella and Entamoeba histolytica. Fecal specimens were collected to isolate pathogens; electron microscopic examination was performed to detect virus-like particles, and tuberculin skin tests were administered. Weekly illness information was provided by participants. Microorganisms were measured in the wastewater, aerosols and drinking water. An index of relative cumulative exposure of each participant to the wastewater aerosol was calculated. The association of viral infections with aerosol exposure showed a dose effect.