A rapid method for quantitative assay of poliovirus from water with the aid of the fluorescent antibody technique

Abstract

A method is described for the rapid quantitative demonstration of polioviruses in water with the aid of the fluorescent antibody technique. Identification of the virus is possible after 18–24 hours as compared to 3–5 days required with the plaque count method. Approximately 10 plaque forming units, concentrated from a volume of 40 liters of seeded tap water could be demonstrated by the rapid method. Positive cells were already seen after 6–9 hours; the results were, however, not sufficiently quantitative. The method also showed itself to be less susceptible to bacterial contamination than the current isolation methods. Its possible utilization as a rapid, primary test for viral contamination of potable water is discussed.