Paljassaare waste water treatment plant in North Tallinn. Source: Kaupo Kalda/Tallinna Vesi
According to the lead researcher of the waste water study, Professor of Technology of Antimicrobial Compounds of the University of Tartu Tanel Tenson, the results have shown predominantly high virus concentration in samples collected from nearly all places in Estonia from the beginning of the year already. In some regions, the concentration of the virus is actually very high, and thus it is not yet possible to talk of any stabilization in the situation.
“As researchers, we can monitor the situation and predict infection trends every week or two, but it is in the hands of each individual to slow down the spread of the virus. Let us avoid contacts, stay home if possible, and wear a mask in public places – this is the only way to curb the spread of the virus as soon as possible,” Tenson pointed out.
Waste water samples are collected at the beginning of every week in all Estonian county centers and cities with more than 10,000 inhabitants. The study is a tool supporting the Health Board by providing early information to assess the spread of the virus before clinical cases are detected. The monitoring helps to find hidden outbreaks and observe changes in the dynamics of outbreaks. The Health Board is regularly informed of the results.
In the collection of samples, the University of Tartu cooperates with the Estonian Environmental Research Centre and water companies operating the waste water treatment plants of Estonian cities. Sewage samples are analysed at the laboratories of the University of Tartu Institute of Technology.
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