Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) Contamination in Water and Food
Helicobacter pylori contamination of natural water sources is a significant water quality concern. It poses a serious public health threat, as well waters, ground water, and food contaminated with H. pylori can cause illnesses in humans with outbreaks of gastroenteric diseases. In the United States, H. pylori effects approximately 20% of adults 40 and under and nearly 50% in humans 60 years of age and older, causing gastritis and peptic ulcers.
Studies suggest that environmental reservoirs can be a repository of H. pylori. Also, research indicates Helicobacter pylori appears in ground water and surface water. Private wells have shown to be contaminated with H. pylori, furthering this research, which also established is a link between people who suffer peptic ulcers and those who have found H. pylori contaminating their private well systems.
What is H. pylori?
Helicobacter pylori are a type of gram-negative bacteria, spiral in structure with sheathed flagella. Acidic conditions help them thrive, and they are located in the gastric mucous layer of the stomach. Helicobacter pylori are highly adaptable in the harsh environment of the stomach. They are microaerophilic, abdominal bacteria that cause the greatest amount of ulcers in the stomach and intestines.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) as Class I carcinogens. Although this disease is widespread, mode of transmission and microbial ecology is still being researched for a more accurate determination.
EMSL’s DNA Laboratory offers an easy sampling test for H. pylori:
- Test code M207: Helicobacter pylori (PCR)
- Test code M207PP: Helicobacter pylori (PCR)
Pre-pay kit with analysis, sampling kit and inbound shipping
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