Dramatic Spikes In Wastewater Virus Concentration Seen Across CT

CONNECTICUT — Once again, as happened in late October, there's been a dramatic spike in the concentration of coronavirus in wastewater in several areas across the state.

Recent spike in COVID-19 infections coincide with a dramatic increase in the virus being detected in sewage.

Researchers found that when SARS-CoV-2 ribonucleic acid, known as RNA, concentrations spike in municipal sewage, it's a predictor of infection rates.

Friday, Yale scientists posted the latest data that shows alarming spikes in the virus concentration in wastewater from Stamford, Bridgeport, Hartford and New Haven.

A Yale public health study on concentrations in municipal sewage sludge concluded it is a leading indicator of COVID-19 outbreak dynamics.

"SARS-CoV-2 RNA concentration in primary sludge closely followed the epidemiology curves established by compiled COVID-19 testing data and hospital admissions, but was a leading indicator by seven and three days, respectively," the study reads.

"Our study could have substantial policy implications. Jurisdictions can use primary sludge SARS-CoV-2 concentrations to preempt community outbreak dynamics or provide an additional basis for easing restrictions, especially when there are limitations in clinical testing. Raw wastewater and sludge-based surveillance is particularly useful for low and middle-income countries where clinical testing capacity is limited."

According to Yale's Grubaugh Lab, the data reflects the number of viruses per milliliter of primary sludge.

This summer, more than 2 million gallons of raw sewage from the New Haven plant leaked into the Mill River and Long Island Sound, forcing officials to close beaches and shellfishing areas.

Since the coronavirus pandemic began there have been 88,645 confirmed and probable cases in Connecticut along with 4,737 deaths. Currently, hospitalizations in the state are surging with 659 as of Friday.

See also: More CT Schools Head To Remote Learning Amid Growing COVID Cases

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