Infectious disease hazards associated with polluted waters

Commercial military and sport diving operations frequently are conducted in waters that are polluted to various degrees. We report here on studies to assess the potential impact of infectious disease hazards on diving operations in polluted waters. Several diving sites, including the Anacostia River in Washington, DC, Norfolk Harbor, VA, and the New York Bight were surveyed for water-borne pathogenic microorganisms that could pose health risks for diving and diving support personnel. The degree of microbial pollution was determined and the major types and quantities of microorganisms present were ascertained. During the course of this study it became apparent from our own results and those of others, that numerous incidents of infection after contact with polluted water have occurred. This paper presents our overview of our findings with a summary of likely infectious disease hazards associated with polluted waters.