COVID-19 transmission risk via sewage "must not be neglected," scientists say

Environmental scientists have warned that the potential spread of COVID-19 via sewage "must not be neglected" since the viruses shed from the digestive system of infected individuals tend to last longer than those from the respiratory tract.

The research, published in the journal Environmental International, noted that while response to pandemic is focused on preventing person-to-person transmission, the virus might also spread in wastewater.

"It has recently been confirmed that the virus can also be found in human faeces -- up to 33 days after the patient has tested negative for the respiratory symptoms of COVID-19," said Richard Quilliam, study co-author from the University of Stirling in Scotland.

Based on their new findings, the scientists warned that the sewerage system itself may pose a transmission risk.

They said the structural makeup of SARS-CoV-2, specifically its lipid envelope covering, suggests that it will behave differently in aqueous environments, compared to other ...