Use of RT seminested PCR to assess viral contamination in Caribbean rivers (Martinique)

RT seminested PCR was used to detect enterovirus and hepatitis A virus RNA in polluted surface water in a Caribbean island. Similar results were obtained from samples with or without PEG concentrations: viral RNA being detected in about 60% of river samples. No correlation was found with bacterial contamination, but some inhibitors may have been present. PCR would seem to be a good tool for monitoring surface water pollution.