Recreational Water Testing

Waterborne diseases are a public health concern across the world. Recreational Water Illnesses (RWIs) are caused by chemicals and microorganisms found in the water we swim or play in. From swimming pools, oceans, hot tubs, water parks and rivers, RWIs require easy testing and analysis to protect public health. Contracted through ingestion or inhalation of water that contains harmful bacteria, infections can also occur through skin contact through cuts or open sores. While there are a variety of RWI causes, the most common is a result of fecal contamination of water. This type of contamination can result in the presence of Enterococcus spp., and E. coli which are associated with diarrhea related illnesses.

While swimming pool related outbreaks of illness are infrequent due to regular chlorine treatment, it does not always work immediately, therefore efficient testing is crucial to manage any potential risk of harmful bacteria that may still be lingering.  Likewise, testing waters like oceans, lakes and rivers can take 24 hours to complete, impacting public health and business in the wait for the results.

Detecting dangerous microbial contamination in recreational water can be a difficult balancing act. While protecting public health is paramount, the potential impact it has on business closures in these environments can be devastating, impacting running costs and reputation. The need for accurate testing is then even more critical when those decisions to close result in false alarms or delayed reaction.

GeneDisc® qPCR System: Easy, reliable microbial test results without the wait

The GeneDisc Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR) system is real-time microbial detection for fresh and saltwater. The system delivers rapid and dependable microbial test results, providing health officials with the answers they need to make informed decisions quickly. This innovative system uses qPCR to detect the presence of target DNA in water samples. From sample preparation to final results in as little as three hours, GeneDisc technology allows health officials around the world to: 

• Get rapid microbial water quality results to improve public safety
• Detect and quantify the presence of pathogens such as E. coli and Enterococcus spp. within three hours
• Reduce lengthy beach or facility closures that results in economic loss
• Diminish public alarm from unnecessary or lengthy restriction on access to recreational waters