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Updated: Jun 21, 2026
10:03
Swab Sampling Method for the Detection of Human Norovirus on Surfaces
Published on: February 6, 2017
Norovirus distribution within an estuarine environment
Jennifer Gentry1, Jan Vinjé, Dominic Guadagnoli
1The University of Georgia, Department of Environmental Health Science, Athens, GA 30602, USA.
Applied and Environmental Microbiology
|July 8, 2009
Summary
Human norovirus (NoV) was detected in Georgia estuaries, with higher concentrations found in plankton than in oysters or water. This study reveals a broader distribution of NoV in estuarine environments than previously understood.
Area of Science:
- Environmental microbiology
- Virology
- Public health
Background:
- Human norovirus (NoV) is a significant cause of global gastroenteritis outbreaks.
- Oysters are recognized as a primary transmission vehicle, but NoV's environmental distribution in estuaries is less understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence, genetic diversity, and concentration of NoV in estuarine environments.
- To analyze NoV distribution across various sample types including oysters, water, and plankton.
Main Methods:
- Collected 225 estuarine samples (oysters, water, plankton) from 12 stations over one year.
- Tested samples for NoV prevalence and genotype using molecular methods.
- Quantified NoV genome concentrations in positive samples.
Main Results:
- NoV was detected in 9.3% of all samples, with oysters (55.0%) and plankton (11.1% and 2.8%) showing positive results.
- Plankton samples, particularly those dominated by zooplankton (>200-microm), exhibited exceptionally high NoV genome concentrations.
- Genogroup I NoV was predominant (90.5%), with Genogroup II detected in 9.5% of positive samples.
Conclusions:
- Estuarine plankton can harbor high concentrations of human norovirus, suggesting a significant role in viral distribution.
- Findings challenge the focus solely on shellfish and highlight the need to consider plankton in estuarine NoV monitoring and risk assessment.
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