SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) may be shed by infected individuals through their stool into sewer systems. Testing sewage (“wastewater”) allows public health officials to detect SARS-CoV-2 virus in communities served by these sewer systems. This information helps health officials increase outreach and testing efforts for these communities, and prepare health care resources for potential surges in COVID-19 cases.
The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD), the St. Mary’s County Metropolitan Commission, and other wastewater treatment services are collaborating to collect and test wastewater samples at multiple locations within the county. Beginning 9/8/21 the samples are being tested by Biobot Analytics for virus particles. Results are given as a concentration of the amount of virus particles per liter of wastewater and are adjusted to account for dilution from rain water. While efforts are made to provide weekly data updates, inclement weather may hamper sample collection and/or processing and prevent an update for each week.
