Detection and quantification of viable<i>Ascaris</i>sp. and other helminth eggs in sewage sludge

Abstract

Some epidemiologic studies conducted in developing countries demonstrated a high incidence of enteroparasites, Ascaris sp. being the most prevalent. Therefore, the use of sewage sludge in agriculture may pose risks to human health. In order to protect public health, a Brazilian regulation has established standards regarding its use in rural areas. The objective of this study was to quantify Ascaris sp. and other helminth eggs in sewage sludge from five wastewater treatment plants from a dense metropolitan region, and also to check compliance with the law. The analysis was carried according to USEPA 2003 USEPA. 2003. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Environmental regulations and technology – control of pathogens and vector attraction in sewage sludge (including domestic septage). Under 40 CFR Part 503. Appendix I – test method for detecting, enumerating, and determining the viability of Ascaris ova in sludge 166 EPA/625/R–92/013; [cited 2012 Oct 4]. Available from: www.epa.gov/ORD/NRMRL/pubs [Google Scholar]. A rich parasitological fauna was found, with a prevalence of the eggs of Ascaris sp. (9.55%). The samples analyzed presented a large variety of helminth eggs, and Ascaris sp. proved to be the most prevalent which put in evidence that its application poses public health concerns.