Investigation of the presence of human adenovirus, norovirus, and rotavirus in tap water in Marrakech, Morocco

This study highlights the value of virological monitoring of drinking water as a complementary tool to understand the circulation of enteric viruses in the community. As the first investigation of its kind in Marrakech, it provides essential baseline data in a context where such information is scarce in Morocco. The high prevalence of human adenovirus (92.15%) and the detection of human norovirus genogroup II and group A rotavirus underscore potential public health risks, especially for vulnerable populations. These findings reveal the limitations of relying solely on bacteriological indicators and emphasize the need to integrate routine viral surveillance into water quality monitoring programs. The results also provide scientific evidence to improve treatment and disinfection processes and to support further research on the infectivity of detected viruses.