CLEVELAND — A “significant increase” in the viral levels of SARS-CoV-2, which is the virus that causes COVID-19, has been found in samples of untreated wastewater at a Cleveland wastewater treatment plant.
According to a release from the Cleveland Department of Health alerting the community of this detection, the samples were taken from the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District’s (NEORSD) Easterly Wastewater Treatment Plant.
"Increasing viral concentrations in wastewater are often a leading indicator of future spikes in illness, hospitalizations, and transmission throughout the community," Director of Public Health Dr. David Margolius said in the release. "This data provides us with an early warning system, and we’re encouraging residents and institutions to take preventive steps now."
The health department said that a sample showed a “250% increase in million gene copies per day” when compared to last month’s average. They say this means it is likely that we’ll see “community spread in the coming days or weeks.”
Additionally, they also found high levels of influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in the same sample. They note, however, that the RSV data is “still in its baseline collection phase.”
They recommend area residents get their vaccine or booster shot for both COVID-19 and the flu. They also note that, should you experience any respiratory symptoms, you should assume you are contagious and stay home or wear a mask if you go out.
“CDPH will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as needed. For the latest public health information, visit clevelandoh.gov/health or follow us on social media.”
