Assessing and Monitoring Microbiological Quality of Surface Waters Using Tele-Epidemiology

Abstract

Contaminated surface water poses a risk to human populations and is a challenge for public health authorities. Climatic change, intensification of agriculture, urban development of coastal areas, and declining freshwater sources may contribute significantly to the risk of surface water contamination and increase incidence of waterborne diseases. Monitoring of surface water quality requires early detection of problems in order to minimize any negative impact on public health. Tele-epidemiology uses remote sensing and geospatial technologies to characterize the spatial and temporal variability of environmental determinants involved in the epidemiology of some diseases. By offering a systematic and integrated approach to water and risk management in public health, tele-epidemiology can be an efficient tool to assess surface water quality and any associated health risks.