Professor Gertjan Medema has been awarded the prestigious Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2024 for his pioneering work in wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) for virus detection.
Singapore, 18 June 2024 – In a ceremony held at The Clifford Pier, The Fullerton Bay Hotel, Professor Gertjan Medema was presented the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2024 by Mr. Tharman Shanmugaratnam, President of the Republic of Singapore. This award honors Professor Medema’s groundbreaking contributions to wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE), particularly for his work in virus detection during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Professor Medema, a leading microbiologist, and expert in water quality and health, recognized the potential of wastewater surveillance in early 2020 as COVID-19 began to spread. By collecting wastewater samples across the Netherlands, he and his team were able to detect the SARS-CoV-2 virus in wastewater before cases were officially reported in several cities. This early detection method proved crucial in monitoring and controlling the spread of the virus within communities.
His initial publication on the subject attracted significant attention, receiving over 1,400 citations and more than 34,000 views from 2020 to 2023. The widespread adoption of wastewater surveillance for public health monitoring globally underscores the importance and effectiveness of Professor Medema’s research. This method provides a non-invasive, cost-effective way to track the prevalence of diseases like SARS-CoV-2, offering valuable insights into community health.
The Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize, established in 2008, recognizes individuals or organizations that have made outstanding contributions to solving global water issues through innovative technologies or impactful policies and programs. This prize is a key feature of the Singapore International Water Week (SIWW).
Source – SIWW
