WC134 JanFeb 2024 - Magazine - Page 6
FRONT
Water related news,
events, and trends
from Canada and
around the world
Originally intended
for wastewater
testing, this costeffective device
is now recognized
globally for its
capability to
identify pathogens
in various water
systems, including
freshwater lakes.
6
EMALIE HAYES, A PhD CIVIL ENGINEERING
CANDIDATE, along with Madison Gouthro,
has developed a novel method for detecting
viruses in water using a 3-D printed, porous
ball. Originally intended for wastewater
testing, this cost-effective device is now recognized globally for its capability to identify
pathogens in various water systems, including
freshwater lakes.
Their research revealed the device’s effectiveness in detecting multiple viruses, such
as SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and norovirus,
in a popular Halifax lake. Utilizing spherical
cages containing granular activated carbon,
the team successfully identified seven different
viruses, with adenovirus being predominant.
This innovation presents a significant
advancement in public health and environ-
WATER C AN ADA • JANUARY/ FEBRUARY 2024
mental monitoring, offering a more efficient
alternative to current virus tracking methods
in water sources. The researchers collected
samples from two lake locations, surrounded by urban areas but devoid of wastewater
inputs. Their findings indicated a higher virus
detection rate with the passive samplers compared to traditional water sampling.
The source of these viruses in the lake is
still unknown, with potential contributions
from human activities, runoff, or septic
systems. This research, led by Dr. Graham
Gagnon and published in Scientific Reports, is
crucial for understanding the impact of viruses on water-related health risks and is closely
monitored by municipal authorities for its
implications on water quality and recreational
activities.
WAT E R C A N A D A . N E T
Getty Images
DALHOUSE ON TRACK WITH VIRUS DETECTION
