Introducing Quadrant Wastewater Surveillance
Wastewater surveillance acts as an early warning system for COVID-19 by detecting the presence of viral RNA shed into the sewer systems. Analysis of wastewater samples will provide local health officials and policymakers with early indications and information regarding the presence and preponderance of COVID-19 infections in these communities.
Why sample wastewater
Allows for large regions to be tested for the presence of viral RNA
Identifies early trends of transmission in community 4-7 days before symptoms appear
Provides local health officials and policymakers with early indications and information on infection rates in their communities
Prompts early targeted interventions
How it works
Samples are collected from influent lines close to the source
Quantifies SARS-CoV-2 viral load in sample
Qualitatively identifies trends in SARS-CoV-2 infections
Standardizes samples using crAssphage, a common bacteriophage found in human stool
Identifies trends of increasing or decreasing transmission of SARS-CoV-2
How effective
Highly sensitive, can detect 1 infected person in a population of 10,000
Who benefits
Communities, residential buildings, institutions and manufacturing facilities can all benefit from wastewater testing
Sample and Transport Protocol
Collect samples from an influent water stream closest to the source
Samples should be collected using a composite water sampler
Place samples in a 250ml capped bottle
Samples should be received within 24 hours of collection
Once samples are received an analytical report will be emailed within 2 business days