Elution of viruses from coastal sediments

Enteric viruses were eluted from estuarine sediments by using four organic mixtures; these solutions, with or without various supplements, were compared by determining their abilities to desorb virus from sediments taken from shellfish-harvesting sites. The least effective eluents consisted of glycine buffer, milk preparations, and beef extract paste. When virus type and sediment composition were taken into consideration, higher percentages of virus recovery were achieved with isoelectric casein, powdered beef extract, and nutrient broth mixtures. In addition to the type of eluent used, variations in virus recovery were due to the pH of the eluent, the composition of the sediment, and the type of virus being extracted. No clear distinction between the values of protein and inorganic ion supplements could be made.