Waterborne Pathogens and Their Surrogates: Detection, Inactivation and Challenges

Dear Colleagues,

The majority of waterborne disease outbreaks associated with the recreational use of untreated waters are caused by pathogenic microorganisms, including bacteria, parasites, and viruses, yet direct monitoring strategies for waterborne pathogens remain technically challenging, and in some cases not feasible. While fecal indicator bacteria (e.g., Escherichia coli and Enterococci) and other alternative indicator organisms (i.e., bacteriophages, microbial source tracking markers and Clostridium spp.) are suitable indicators of fecal pollution, their relationship with waterborne pathogens, especially viruses, is tenuous at best, and influenced by many different factors. We are excited to announce the launch of a new Topic titled “Waterborne Pathogens and their Surrogates: Detection, Inactivation and Challenges”.

The focus of the Topic includes but is not limited to (1) the occurrence of waterborne pathogens in ambient waters and wastewater, (2) methodological advances in waterborne pathogen detection and quantification, and (3) explorations of the waterborne pathogen relationship with various indicator organisms, including their inactivation properties. We welcome original research articles, literature reviews and a limited number of other communications, including perspectives and opinions.

Dr. Brian R. McMinn
Dr. Warish Ahmed
Dr. Asja Korajkic
Topic Editors