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Updated: Sep 6, 2026

EPA Method 1615. Measurement of Enterovirus and Norovirus Occurrence in Water by Culture and RT-qPCR. I. Collection of Virus Samples
Published on: March 28, 2015
[Risk of transmission of enterovirus from the surface of toilets]
Abstract:
Experimental studies using dyes and microbial agents as indicators showed that a viral contamination of the various surfaces of the water closets is possible through the droplets formed when one flushes the W.C. pan. An investigation conducted in several public water closets allowed to reveal the presence of enteroviruses in 2.8% to 5.8% of the samples collected from various surfaces of the water closets. The results of the investigations showed that the hinged seats were contaminated the most frequently (6.8% of the samples).
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