While it’s theoretically possible to catch COVID-19 from solids in wastewater, there’s no evidence we know of this actually happening. What COVID-19 in wastewater really means in practice is there’s an outbreak looming somewhere in the system. This may give authorities forewarning depending on timing.
Arizona Uni Understood What COVID-19 in Wastewater Really Means
University of Arizona stopped a potential outbreak just after the start of the fall semester, according to Water World. Sewage testers found traces in raw wastewater from a particular dorm. Further investigation found two positive, asymptomatic residents who tested negative before they moved in.
The university placed them in quarantine to stop the spread. The next day the wastewater tested negative again. Technicians continued monitoring wastewater, and testing and quarantining infected individuals accordingly. Charles Gerba, professor of environmental microbiology at the Uni says having a confined population makes this strategy effective.
Wastewater is also an effective tool for monitoring the virus in a larger population. However, in this instance it’s just a useful addition to the public health toolkit. That’s because it lacks sufficient information to zero in on the source.
How University of North Carolina in Charlotte Used This Knowledge
WBTV News reported positive tests in wastewater from a Charlotte residence hall on October 2, 2020. It confirmed officials there moved swiftly to contain a possible outbreak, because they understood what COVID-19 in wastewater really means. Students remained in the building until testing was complete, except for medical appointments.
Those who proved positive or had close contacts quarantined in isolation, but with full meal service. It’s good to know University of North Carolina in Charlotte knew what to do, and did it so expeditiously. We can beat the COVID-19 epidemic as Charlotte did, if we are on side with what science tells us. However, we are less likely to succeed if we blindly follow raw gut feel.
Related
Chasing the Coronavirus Down Sewers
Pooling Samples for Testing During COVID-19
Preview Image: Aerial View of UNC Charlotte
