New trends in food- and waterborne viral outbreaks

Abstract

Current trends in food- and waterborne viral diseases have been reviewed. Awareness and surveillance of viral food and waterborne pathogens is generally not sufficient, with emphasis placed on noroviruses, hepatitis A virus, rotaviruses and newly emerging viruses. In addition, previously unknown food-borne pathogens, many of which are zoonotic, are constantly emerging. Food can be contaminated with a virus either at the source via contaminated water, or at the point of service by infected food handlers. Viruses can spread by water, direct person-to-person contact, airborne droplets or vomit, and they can persist in the environment as a source of continuing infection despite disinfection efforts. Food production and supply practices change, and food-borne pathogens seem able to exploit novel opportunities, for example fresh produce, and generate new food safety and public health challenges.