A rapid method for quantitative assay of poliovirus from water with the aid of the fluorescent antibody technique

A method is described for the rapid quantitative demonstration of polioviruses in water with the aid of the fluorescent antibody technique. Identification of the virus is possible after 18--24 hours as compared to 3--5 days required with the plaque count method. Approximately 10 plaque forming units, concentrated from a volume of 40 liters of seeded tap water could be demonstrated by the rapid method. Positive cells were already seen after 6--9 hours; the results were, however, not sufficiently quantitative. The method also showed itself to be less susceptible to bacterial contamination than the current isolation methods. Its possible utilization as a rapid, primary test for viral contamination of potable water is discussed.