Cryptosporidium is a protozoan parasite that lives in the intestinal tract of infected humans and animals. It is shed in faeces, thereby contaminating waters and soils, and may be present in inadequately treated drinking... [ view full abstract ]
Cryptosporidium is a protozoan parasite that lives in the intestinal tract of infected humans and animals. It is shed in faeces, thereby contaminating waters and soils, and may be present in inadequately treated drinking water. Infection can be asymptomatic in some cases, but more frequently results in watery diarrhoea, stomach cramps, bloating, vomiting and fever. Although usually a self-limiting illness in otherwise healthy people, it may be associated with chronic gastrointestinal sequelae in some people and may be fatal for those with impaired immune function.
In March 2007, the largest outbreak of cryptosporidiosis since surveillance began in Ireland was identified, and was associated with contamination of the water supply serving Galway City and surrounding areas. The outbreak lasted for 5 months, by which time there were 242 confirmed cases of cryptosporidiosis, although it is likely that the actual number affected was far higher. A boil water notice was put in place for the duration of the outbreak affecting approximately 120,000 people living in the area, all of whom required an alternative water supply. The outbreak ended in August 2007 following major investments by local authorities in water treatment infrastructure and major disruption to residents and local businesses.
The aim of this research was to place a monetary value on the costs and inconveniences imposed by the 2007 Galway outbreak on the public, local businesses, the healthcare system, local authorities, national agencies, tourism and other water-dependent sectors. The research also examined the relationship between the investment needed to mitigate risk of contamination with Cryptosporidium and the benefits that would arise from such an investment.
This study represents the first of its kind in Ireland.
Key findings include:
1. The overall cost of the waterborne outbreak of cryptosporidiosis that occurred in Galway in 2007 was estimated to amount to €19 million or €120,000 per day of the outbreak.
2. The estimated total cost to households in the affected area was approximately €3.9 million. This translates into an average cost of almost €88 per household (or €0.55 per household per day of the outbreak) in the boil notice zone in 23 weeks (158 days) while the boil water notice was in effect.
3. The estimated cost to lodging and care businesses amounted to almost €8 million or €50,000 per day of the outbreak.
4. Almost €6 million of the total cost of the outbreak was the cost of mitigation actions by the local authorities. This includes €388,000 for the installation of a UV treatment facility that effectively inactivates Cryptosporidium oocytes in water, thus preventing waterborne transmission.
5. When the capital investment necessary to accommodate the installation of UV treatment system was taken into account, the total cost was €1,674,000. If we consider that this investment made prior to the outbreak would have prevented the outbreak, the potential saving per euro invested amounts to €11.
Research team: Professor Martin Cormican, Dr. Diarmuid O’Donovan, Dr. Srinivas Raghavendra, Dr. Martina Prendergast and Dr. Aksana Chyzheusakya
This academic workshop will involve
1. A 15 minute PowerPoint presentation by the PI (Dr Dearbhaile Morris) who led the research team to present the key findings of the research.
2. A Q&A-style session with the research team members for 30 mins about the rational for the study, work leading to the study proposal, and lessons learned from conducting the study.
3. A 20 mins general discussion on the recommendations arising from the research.
4. A 20 min networking session over tea/coffee between research team and delegates to discuss the possibilities of collaboration for future projects.
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