The spread of viruses was estimated using the school sewer

A joint study conducted by epidemiologists from Rice University and the Department of Health

Houston, showed that wastewater monitoring -an effective way to detect viral outbreaks in schools. Prompt response to such signals, including quarantine, will reduce the duration of the outbreak and the harm caused to local communities.

In the process of research, scientists for 17months monitored the presence of traces of coronavirus infection and influenza A and B in wastewater from 51 educational organizations, including schools and preschool institutions. For monitoring, workers took weekly samples from manholes into which sewage enters.

The principle of conducting a study of wastewater. Image: Madeline Wolken et al., Water Research

The analysis showed that the concentration of the virusSARS-CoV-2 in sewage was predictive of a school outbreak of coronavirus infection. In addition, the same data corresponded to an increased risk of illness in a certain area: the number of cases in the area with the same postal code as the school increased after the diagnosis of the virus in sewage.

Schools and pre-school institutions - well-knownsource of respiratory viral infections. A large number of students and employees in close proximity to each other makes schools a high-risk area and contributes to the spread of diseases. The ability to detect the start of potential outbreaks in schools is critical to preventing the spread of the virus.

Researchers believe that wastewater monitoringVod provides the necessary data. Based on the collected data, schools, municipalities and health authorities can develop response strategies, such as proactively implementing distance learning or quarantine to stop the spread of the infection.

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