To prevent the spread of COVID-19 and to support the public health response to this disease, a coordinated network of labs, local health departments, universities, and wastewater utilities are monitoring wastewater for the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The virus can be detected in the feces of individuals who are infected, including in those who are infected but do not experience any symptoms. Monitoring wastewater can provide an early indicator of disease spread within a community, because the virus can be detected in wastewater up to 7-10 days before the infections lead to increases in clinical cases. This data can alert public health agencies of a potential future increase in cases within a specific community and allow additional precautions to be put in place to prevent further spread of the virus. Wastewater monitoring does not replace clinical testing; it enhances the overall understanding of the virus in a community.

This story map details the pilot project for this effort, including a summary of the data collected and the methods for the project. Visit our data dashboard page to view additional results.

For more information, please visit the following sites:

Questions? Please email MDHHS-SEWERNetwork@michigan.gov