Utilizing Performance Parameters in Wastewater Treatment Plants for the Implementation of Wastewater-Based Epidemiology. In: Souabi, S., Anouzla, A., Yadav, S., Singh, V.P., Yadava, R.N. (eds) Wastewater Treatment Plants

Morales-Mora, E.; Centeno-Mora, E.; Barrios-Hernández, M. L.; Chacon, L.

Abstract:

This chapter aims to describe the application framework of wastewater-based epidemiology (WWBE) as a pivotal source for public health surveillance. It seeks to bridge environmental engineering with public health, providing a comprehensive overview of WWBE’s potential in monitoring and responding to epidemiological surveillance and healthcare needs. A multidisciplinary approach has been applied to develop the WWBE framework. The chapter introduces WWBE, incorporating fundamental microbiology, chemistry, surveillance, engineering, and epidemiology concepts. This approach includes monitoring techniques, agent descriptions, laboratory analyses, data analysis methods, and epidemiologic considerations. Finally, the chapter illustrates the theory through study cases and future perspectives. It is focused on the application of laboratory, surveillance, statistical, and epidemiological approaches. Mainly, it considers the critical points for a successful WWBE surveillance system. Furthermore, it illustrates how these advanced analytical techniques can significantly improve public health surveillance systems’ accuracy and predictive capacity, allowing for timely and informed decision-making based on wastewater data. The chapter concludes by showing a practical application and implementation of WWBE in real-world cases, explicitly focusing on public health decision-making uses through engineering and epidemiology methods. In addition, this section includes future perspectives based on the presented information to integrate WWBE into routine public health surveillance. It also highlights the need for ongoing technological advancements and interdisciplinary collaboration to maximize its efficacy and sustainability. This is a preview

Year:

2025

Type of Publication:

Article

Journal:

Water Science and Technology Library

Volume:

130

Pages:

137 - 176

Month:

19 June 2025

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-87461-1_8