Detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA with a Simple Concentration Method in Wastewater in Turkey: A Pilot Study in Çorum

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Many studies have shown the advantages of monitoring wastewater in the evaluation of microbiological pathogens circulating in the community. It was aimed to detect of SARS-CoV-2 RNA with a simple concentration method in wastewater in this study. Materials and Methods: In our study, 7 wastewater samples were investigated, which were collected from the Urban Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) of Çorum, between October to November 2020. Sorbent bags were left in water for 24 hours. Then they were used to trap and concentrate the virus. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) RNA detected by using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) assays. Results: As a result, 3 of the 7 samples taken were positive for N and ORF1ab target gene regions. Conclusion: This is the first study reporting the detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in wastewater with different concentration and capture method.