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Pathogens in septage in Vietnam
Vo Thi Yen-Phi1, Andrea Rechenburg, Björn Vinneras
1Institute for Hygiene and Public Health, University of Bonn, Sigmund-Freud-Str. 25, 53105 Bonn, Germany. phi.vo_thi_yen@ukb.uni-bonn.de
The Science of the Total Environment
|February 9, 2010
Summary
Septic tank waste (septage) is heavily contaminated with pathogens, including helminth ova, posing significant health risks. Proper handling and treatment are crucial, especially when considering agricultural reuse of septage sludge.
Area of Science:
- Environmental microbiology
- Public health
- Wastewater treatment
Background:
- Septage is a major source of infectious pathogens.
- Disposal and management of septage and septic tanks lack regulation in many developing nations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the pathogen and indicator microorganism content of untreated septage and septage sludge.
- To assess the microbial load in septage sludge after extended storage.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 20 untreated septage and septage sludge samples from Can Tho City, Vietnam.
- Detection of bacteria (Escherichia coli, Enterococcus spp., Salmonella spp.), phages, and helminth ova.
Main Results:
- Escherichia coli and Enterococcus spp. were found in all samples.
- Salmonella spp. detected in 70% of untreated septage and 60% of sludge.
- Helminth ova were present in 95% of untreated septage and 100% of sludge, with significantly higher concentrations in sludge.
- Twelve varieties of helminth ova identified, with Ascaris lumbricoides predominating.
Conclusions:
- Pathogens, particularly helminth ova, accumulate in septage sludge.
- Helminth ova must be considered for septage sludge treatment and agricultural use.
- Strict health protection measures are necessary for individuals handling septage.
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