General Information

There are a number of diseases caused by protozoans which can occur in Australia and are potentially waterborne. They include severe cerebral and eye infections caused by amoeba (Naegleria and Acanthamoeba species) and gastroenteritis caused by enteric protozoans (Cryptosporidium and Giardia species). Protozoa can be a public health concern in various aquatic and related environments, including drinking and recreational waters, and some specialised industrial environments.

The Australian Water Quality Centre has been monitoring and advising on control of pathogens in water sources, supplies and bathing waters for more than 30 years. The Centre is the Australian reference Laboratory for identification of amoebae, and has considerable expertise in assessing the effectiveness of water treatment processes against protozoa.

Nata accreditation has been obtained for all tests performed.

The following analytical, consultancy and research services are offered:

Amoebae

• Monitoring of the occurrence and density of pathogenic amoebae in water supplies and recreational waters including swimming pools.
• Investigation of amoebae in specialised environments such as eyewash stations and cooling towers.
  
• Identification of cultured amoebae by microscopy, Real-time PCR and isozyme electrophoresis (a service to clinical and environmental laboratories).

Cryptosporidium and Giardia

• Analysis of source water, drinking water, waste water and recreational water for Cryptosporidium and Giardia.
  
• Advice on disinfection and prevention of contamination.
  
• Assessment of the effectiveness of water treatment chemicals and processes against protozoans.