Following an outbreak of Hepatitis A, the water supply is sampled. A high count of which of the following isolates would indicate that the water was a potential source?
Coliform bacteria areindicators of fecal contaminationin water, making them a critical measure of water safety. Hepatitis A is a virus primarily transmitted via thefecal-oral route, often through contaminated food or water.
Step-by-Step Justification:
Fecal Contamination and Hepatitis A:
Hepatitis A virus (HAV) spreads through ingestion of water contaminated with fecal matter. Highcoliform countsindicate fecal contamination and increase the risk of HAV outbreaks.
Use of Coliforms as Indicators:
Public health agencies usetotal coliforms and Escherichia coli (E. coli)as primary indicators of water safety because theysignal fecal pollution.
Waterborne Transmission of Hepatitis A:
Hepatitis A outbreaks have been traced tocontaminated drinking water, ice, and improperly treated wastewater.Coliform detection signals a need for immediate action.
Why Other Options Are Incorrect:
B. Pseudomonads:
Pseudomonads (e.g.,Pseudomonas aeruginosa) areenvironmental bacteriabut are not indicators of fecal contamination.
C. Legionella:
Legionellaspecies causeLegionnaires' diseasethrough inhalation of contaminated aerosols,not through fecal-oral transmission.
D. Acinetobacter:
Acinetobacterspecies are opportunistic pathogens in healthcare settings butare not indicators of waterborne fecal contamination.
CBIC Infection Control References:
APIC Text, "Water Systems and Infection Control Measures".
APIC Text, "Hepatitis A Transmission and Waterborne Outbreaks".
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