Is it believed that the ingestion of one virus CFU can cause infection in humans?

The assertion that the ingestion of one virus CFU (colony-forming unit) can cause infection in humans is rooted in the nature of viral pathogens and their infectious dose. Many viruses have a very low infectious dose, meaning that even a single viral particle can be sufficient to initiate an infection in a human host. This is particularly true for certain pathogens like noroviruses or rotaviruses, which are known for their high infectivity and resilience in various environments, including food and water. The ability of such a small number of viral particles to cause illness emphasizes the significant risk associated with viral contamination.

Understanding this concept is essential in fields such as food safety, public health, and environmental health, as it underscores the importance of controlling viral contamination in food and water supplies to prevent outbreaks and protect public health. The notion also informs guidelines for food handling practices, water treatment processes, and sanitation measures.