Sewage Contamination from Flooding –Bacterial or Viral?

Testing Lab Can Now Determine the Source

WEBWIRE – Monday, August 29, 2011

Philadelphia, PA

The Northeast is preparing for a major hurricane through Sunday. One of the biggest problems encountered in the aftermath of a hurricane is sewage contaminated storm water and drinking water. The contamination is from human and animal bacterial and viral sources due to sewage treatment plant failures and storm water overflows.

Contamination from bacteria and viruses are potentially hazardous and include acute gastrointestinal illness, and acute, severe, chronic viral infections including Polio and Hepatitis A.

With the advent of powerful and highly discriminatory Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing, EMSL can test for a variety of specific enteric bacteria, enteroviruses, and Bacteroides which are indicative of fecal contamination. Unlike typical culture tests, PCR offers same day test results allowing for rapid remedial response to the contamination. “EMSL’s PCR testing also allows for the determination of human or animal sources of contamination”, states Diane Miskowski, Business Development Manager.

For more information on testing for sewage contamination, call 1-800-220-3675 x 2528.

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of quality environmental and materials testing services and products to professionals and the general public. The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulatory agencies.