Using science to evaluate effects of the arts: Microbiological study of household hygiene conditions

A discussion of the sampling and results of a microbiological survey from household fomite, drinking water and hand swab samples in an urban, low-income community in Lima, Peru will be presented. Sampling occurred both before and after the artistic intervention of the Arts for Behavior Change (ABC) Program in Lima, Peru. This session will describe how microbial data from the environment can be used to estimate exposure risks and the probability of adverse human health outcomes. Quantitative levels of microbial pathogens and fecal indicators, isolated from contact surfaces and drinking water, can be used to model exposure risks and infection probabilities in humans. A total of 189 fomite, drinking water and hand swabs were collected Pre and Post from sites in a low-income community in Lima, Peru were analyzed for Listeria, a common foodborne pathogen and Escherichia coli, a standard fecal indicator microbe. Targeted areas within the home included bathrooms, kitchens, and other food preparation sites. Listeria and E. coli were isolated from 26% and 50% of all samples at Pre, respectively. This baseline data suggests a significant human health risk from household contaminants. The data are currently being utilized in a quantitative risk assessment model to further estimate the likelihood of pathogen exposures and severity of human health risks as well as to determine effects of the ABC Program.