Frederick W. Pontius

Detection of Noroviruses in Water—Summary of an International Workshop

Noroviruses (NVs) are the most common cause of acute nonbacterial gastroenteritis worldwide. An international workshop of 36 people from 5 countries was held on 20-22 March 2002, in Voorhees, New Jersey, to identify barriers to the development of methods for detection of NVs in water and to develop a multiyear research agenda to coordinate efforts to advance the development of methods for detection of NVs. The workshop focused on 3 areas: (1) collection, concentration, and processing of samples; (2) molecular methods for detection and confirmation of NVs; and (3) the detection of infectious NVs through cell culture, infectivity surrogates, and human volunteers. Twelve research projects were developed by the workshop participants.

A look at the federal drinking water revolving loan fund proposals

The lack of funding is a primary reason behind the difficulty many water systems have with installing needed treatment, upgrading existing systems, or making other improvements necessary to meet new regulations set under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). Providing a mechanism for federal funding for drinking water systems is a key objective of pending legislation. Current legislative proposals are patterned after the state revolving loan fund (SRF) concept used for funding wastewater treatment facilities under the Clean Water Act (CWA). The federal government would provide capitalization grants to states that meet the minimum requirements set by the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). The states would provide loans and other financial assistance to eligible water systems who would repay the loans, thereby perpetuating the fund. This article compares the SRF proposals currently pending in Congress.