A practical guide to wastewater pathogens

Wastewater treatment professionals face daily exposure to a wide variety of pathogens. These include viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and helminthes, as well as allergins, endotoxins, and exotoxins. While generally minimal, potential health hazards are still cause for concern. Along with the emergence of such new diseases as Bird Flu virus, monkeypox, and West Nile virus, these hazards point to the need for a comprehensive review of wastewater pathogens.

The fourth volume in Wiley's Wastewater Microbiology series, Wastewater Pathogens offers wastewater personnel a practical guide that is free of overly technical jargon. Designed especially for operators, the text provides straight facts on the biology of treatment as well as appropriate protective measures.

Coverage includes:

• An overview of relevant history, hazards, and organisms
• Viruses, bacteria, and fungi
• Protozoa and helminthes
• Ectoparasites and rodents
• Aerosols, foam, and sludge
• Disease transmission and the body's defenses
• Removal, inactivation, and destruction of pathogens
• Hygiene measures, protective equipment, and immunizations

Additional features include a list of references, a guide to abbreviations and acronyms, relevant chemical compounds and elements, and a glossary of important terms. Well suited for use both in the classroom and on the job, Wastewater Pathogens provides plant operators and other wastewater professionals with a practical, no-nonsense guide to the biology and biological conditions of the treatment process.