Acute gastroenteritis and recreational water: Highest burden among young US children

Arnold, BF; Wade, TJ; Benjamin-Chung, J; Schiff, KC; Griffith, JF; Dufour, AP; Weisberg, SB; Colford, JM

HERO ID

5882726

Reference Type

Journal Article

Year

2016

Language

English

PMID

27459461

HERO ID 5882726
In Press No
Year 2016
Title Acute gastroenteritis and recreational water: Highest burden among young US children
Authors Arnold, BF; Wade, TJ; Benjamin-Chung, J; Schiff, KC; Griffith, JF; Dufour, AP; Weisberg, SB; Colford, JM
Journal American Journal of Public Health
Volume 106
Issue 9
Page Numbers 1690-1697
Abstract <strong>OBJECTIVES: </strong>To provide summary estimates of gastroenteritis risks and illness burden associated with recreational water exposure and determine whether children have higher risks and burden.<br /><br /><strong>METHODS: </strong>We combined individual participant data from 13 prospective cohorts at marine and freshwater beaches throughout the United States (n = 84 411). We measured incident outcomes within 10 days of exposure: diarrhea, gastrointestinal illness, missed daily activity (work, school, vacation), and medical visits. We estimated the relationship between outcomes and 2 exposures: body immersion swimming and Enterococcus spp. fecal indicator bacteria levels in the water. We also estimated the population-attributable risk associated with these exposures.<br /><br /><strong>RESULTS: </strong>Water exposure accounted for 21% of diarrhea episodes and 9% of missed daily activities but was unassociated with gastroenteritis leading to medical consultation. Children aged 0 to 4 and 5 to 10 years had the most water exposure, exhibited stronger associations between levels of water quality and illness, and accounted for the largest attributable illness burden.<br /><br /><strong>CONCLUSIONS: </strong>The higher gastroenteritis risk and associated burden in young children presents important new information to inform future recreational water quality guidelines designed to protect public health.
Doi 10.2105/AJPH.2016.303279
Pmid 27459461
Wosid WOS:000388072300037
Is Certified Translation No
Dupe Override No
Is Public Yes
Language Text English