How waste water testing can identify virus weeks before symptoms emerge

That’s the conclusion of new research by the CSIRO and the University of Queensland and could lead to an early detection system as economies re-open and people become more mobile.

The researchers analysed Brisbane wastewater samples from February and March, tracking genetic fragments of the COVID-19 virus flushed into the wastewater system through infected people’s faeces.

They found the samples were able to detect the genetic fingerprint of the virus up to three weeks before the first COVID-19 cases were publicly reported.

The discovery could allow authorities to target specific areas for public health interventions and avoid full lock-downs of larger regions.

CSIRO CEO Larry Marshall said wastewater testing could help open up borders to drive Australia’s recovery and reduce future disruption.

“Australians want to do the right thing, but this solution from science detects the disease before people feel the symptoms, so we can out-think and outmanoeuvre this…

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