Detection of SARS-CoV-2 in Wastewater: Implications for Public Health and Climate Resilience

Abstract

SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, can be traced through feces and urine, making wastewater a valuable resource for controlling its spread. This study aimed to detect SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater from three decentralized treatment plants in Puerto Rico and assess its implications for public health. During monitoring from December to January 2024, high concentrations of SARS-CoV-2 were observed, primarily in December, with an increase in January at the Río Grande and Humacao wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). These data align with the positivity rates for SARS-CoV-2 reported in Puerto Rico for these communities from October 2023 to January 2024. A Pearson correlation analysis examined the relationship between temperature and SARS-CoV-2 concentration in wastewater, indicating a slight correlation that suggests high temperatures above 30˚C may modestly affect the persistence of the virus in sewage. Understanding these variables is crucial, especially as temperatures rise and contribute to extreme heat. By analyzing the concentration of the virus in sewage, we can predict infection rates in the population and gain insights into the virus’s behavior and its resistance to environmental factors. This research underscores the importance of wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) as an early detection method and its role in sustainable public health strategies. The emphasis is on effective wastewater management to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 and future pandemics in the context of climate change.