Confirming absence of infectious disease transmission risk using wastewater surveillance
Author Information
Author(s): Larsen David A., Hill Dustin, Zhu Yifan, Alazawi Mohammed, Chatila Dana, Dunham Christopher, Faruolo Catherine, Ferro Brandon, Godinez Alejandro, Hanson Brianna, Insaf Tabassum, Lang Dan, Neigel Dana, Neyra Milagros, Pulido Nicole, Wilder Max, Yang Nan, Kmush Brittany, Green Hyatt
Primary Institution: Department of Public Health, Syracuse University
Hypothesis
Can wastewater surveillance effectively confirm the absence of poliovirus transmission risk?
Conclusion
Wastewater surveillance can confirm the absence of a polio threat and can be escalated if poliovirus is detected.
Supporting Evidence
- Wastewater testing for poliovirus began in New York State in July of 2022.
- Polio was detected in 12 (23.5)% of the 51 wastewater treatment plants in downstate New York.
- Estimated sensitivity to detect a single poliovirus infection was low, <11% at most wastewater treatment plants.
- Three consecutive non-detections of poliovirus provide confidence in zero poliovirus infections.
Takeaway
Scientists tested wastewater to see if polio was spreading, and they found that it can help show if there is no risk of polio in the community.
Methodology
The study used wastewater sampling and testing to estimate the sensitivity of detecting poliovirus in wastewater.
Potential Biases
Potential biases include assumptions about equal mixing of vaccinated and unvaccinated populations.
Limitations
The sensitivity of detection is low and varies by population size and other factors.
Participant Demographics
The study focused on wastewater from communities in New York State, particularly those with varying vaccination rates.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.01
Confidence Interval
95% CI = 1,359–1,439
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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