Region 6: Innovative Immunoassay to Determine Waterborne Disease Risk in Tribes

Tribal communities are disproportionately affected by a number of environmental and health issues.  Waterborne and other infectious diseases are a concern in areas where drinking water wells are susceptible to runoff contamination and areas with aging water treatment and sewage disposal infrastructure. The purpose of this project is to quantify the incidence of new waterborne diseases and other infections in tribal communities.  The study will utilize a novel, multiplex salivary immunoassay to determine the incidence of infections over a one-year period. Rates of infection will be compared with local water quality and other environmental conditions and contrasted with rates of infections from other non-tribal communities. Findings will provide valuable information to tribal community members regarding the incidence of infection in their communities and, in consultation with local public health leaders, may encourage preventative public health outreach.  Project result will improve understanding of how environmental and socioeconomic conditions in tribal communities may affect the spread of diseases.