SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater: From detection to evaluation

Area of Science:

• Environmental science
• Public health
• Virology

Background:

• SARS-CoV-2 detection in wastewater is crucial for public health surveillance.
• Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) is emerging as a valuable tool for monitoring infectious diseases.
• Understanding factors influencing SARS-CoV-2 detection is key for reliable WBE.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on SARS-CoV-2 detection, concentration, and evaluation in wastewater.
• To identify and discuss critical factors impacting the quality and comparability of WBE studies.
• To provide guidance for effective wastewater surveillance strategies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater.
• Analysis of factors affecting virus detection and quantification in environmental samples.
• Synthesis of information to establish best practices for WBE.

Main Results:

• Wastewater surveillance can serve as an early warning system for COVID-19 outbreaks.
• Factors such as temperature, pH, initial viral load, and chemical pollutants significantly affect SARS-CoV-2 detection.
• Variability in these factors impacts the reliability and comparability of global WBE studies.

Conclusions:

• Standardized methods and consideration of influencing factors are essential for accurate WBE.
• This review offers comprehensive guidance for improving wastewater surveillance for SARS-CoV-2.
• Effective WBE strengthens public health response to viral outbreaks.