What are disease hotspots?
They are areas where diseases occur or spread. Often these are specific geographic areas, such as a country, a city, or a continent, but they can also be smaller places, such as a building or a community.
Studying disease hotspots helps us understand how diseases are spread and controlled. It also allows us to identify areas where they are most likely to develop, which allows us to helps to take preventive measures.
Hence the importance of seeking early detection of such outbreaks, before growth and spread that is difficult to curb occurs.
How are disease hotspots detected by wastewater analysis?
For early detection, the monitoring of "environments of interest" comes into play. One of the main ones is the urban waste waterThe microbiological analysis allows us to detect the circulation of viruses and other types of diseases in the population.
This waste water analysis is traditionally carried out by using sampling techniques.
Water samples are taken from wastewater and analysed for pathogens. Samples can be taken from different locations, such as wells, pipes or sewage tanks.
The tests are performed in laboratories and can detect a wide range of pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, fungi and protozoa.
These analyses allow us to identify disease hotspots in wastewater and to take measures to control and prevent their spread.
Autosampling and continuous monitoring
This is a time-consuming processThe process of sampling is a time-consuming one, as a technician has to be sent to take the samples, send them to the laboratory and wait for the results to be sent back. In addition, this process is carried out periodically, so it could take a long time between analyses.
In the detection of disease outbreaks time is vital. The sooner we have the information, the sooner we can react. This is where the continuous self-sampling and monitoring systems.
Water biosense technology
To implement them, devices are installed in the body or bodies of water to be analysed.
These devices are connected to a computer system that allows them to communicate with a central monitoring and management panel.
Once installed, these devices shall take samples on a regular basis (periodicity to be set and modified from the central panel).
The sample analysis is performed on the device itself.which is prepared to detect a specific spectrum of pathogens and microbiological parameters in water.
This is known as "self-sampling".
Continuous monitoring
This system analyses samples continuously, so that we can consult the state of the water in real time.
Continuous monitoring is best for achieving early warnings and therefore take really effective corrective measures.
The earlier we detect an outbreak, the more likely it is to be successfully treated and to prevent further outbreaks.
Conclusions
- Detection of disease hotspots is vital to control and prevent the spread of disease.
- One of the most effective ways to find them is wastewater analysis.
- The sooner we react, the more effective our corrective measures will be.
- Self-sampling and continuous monitoring systems are the most effective tools for early detection.
At Sensactive Technology we focus on research and development of innovative systems for health care and the environment. Ask us for more information here.
