Human Enteric Viruses and Parasitic Agents in Food and Waterborne Disease
Author Information
Author(s): Lee-Ann Jaykus
Primary Institution: North Carolina State University
Hypothesis
The study investigates the epidemiology and detection methods for human enteric viruses and protozoal parasites in food and waterborne diseases.
Conclusion
Improved detection methods and epidemiologic surveillance are essential for controlling food and waterborne diseases caused by human enteric viruses and protozoa.
Supporting Evidence
- Human enteric viruses are increasingly recognized as important causes of foodborne illness.
- Recent data indicate that 10% of foodborne disease outbreaks of unconfirmed etiology met clinical criteria for viral gastroenteritis.
- Enteric protozoa have become the leading cause of waterborne disease outbreaks since 1981.
Takeaway
This study talks about how tiny germs in food and water can make people sick, and how scientists are trying to find better ways to detect them.
Methodology
The study reviews epidemiologic investigations and detection methods for food and waterborne viruses and parasites.
Potential Biases
The reluctance to use epidemiologic criteria and failure to report mild outbreaks may introduce bias in understanding the true scope of the problem.
Limitations
Many diseases are not reportable, leading to underestimation of the problem, and there are difficulties in investigating outbreaks due to lack of resources and reporting.
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