Test confirms no trace of coronavirus in ACT sewage

A comprehensive testing program has found no traces of SARS-CoV-2 in Canberra's sewage system. The testing program, carried out by experts from ANU, examined Canberra's sewage water for traces of the coronavirus which causes COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2. Testing sewage is a rapid and inexpensive way of tracking the coronavirus and potential community transmission. ANU environmental epidemiologist and project lead, Dr Aparna Lal, said the testing of daily samples throughout May found no SARS-CoV-2 in sewage from Canberra. "We tested 25 samples in May from Icon Water's sewage treatment plant, covering the whole of ACT population, and found no traces of SARS-CoV-2 RNA," she said. "This coincides with the period that the ACT was declared free of any new coronavirus cases. "These are excellent outcomes, and show the Canberra community are listening to and following health advice and that we are all working extremely hard to stop the potential spread of COVID-19." The samples from Icon Water's sewage treatment plant were analysed using advanced genetic testing, to detect SARS-CoV2 and a range of other viruses.