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Quantification and Whole Genome Characterization of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in Wastewater and Air Samples
Published on: June 30, 2023
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SARS-CoV-2 variant detection at a university dormitory using wastewater genomic tools
Van Vo1, Richard L Tillett2, Ching-Lan Chang1
1Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Precision Medicine, University of Nevada Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV 89154, USA.
The Science of the Total Environment
|September 18, 2021
Summary
Wastewater surveillance can detect severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants from dormitories. Whole genome sequencing of wastewater enables early identification of COVID-19 variants on university campuses.
Area of Science:
- Environmental science
- Virology
- Public health
Background:
- Universities implemented wastewater monitoring for SARS-CoV-2 in Fall 2020.
- Quantitative PCR (qPCR) successfully detected viral RNA but variant detection feasibility in dormitories was unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility of detecting severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants in wastewater from a university dormitory.
- To evaluate the utility of whole genome sequencing for wastewater surveillance at the building level.
Main Methods:
- Wastewater samples were collected from a dormitory.
- Viral RNA was extracted and subjected to whole genome sequencing.
- Genomic coverage and variant detection were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Wastewater surveillance identified viral genomes with over 95% coverage from a dormitory with at least three infected students.
- Detection of SARS-CoV-2 variants from dormitory wastewater was demonstrated as achievable.
Conclusions:
- Wastewater surveillance is effective for variant detection at the dormitory level.
- Implementing whole genome sequencing in university wastewater surveillance programs enhances COVID-19 monitoring capabilities.
