Scientists at ESR, the Crown Research Institute that has led New Zealand's Covid-19 testing response, have plans to test sewage from managed isolation and quarantine facilities for Covid-19. Chris McKeen/Stuff ESR first trialled sewage testing for the coronavirus in mid-April, targeting areas with significant outbreaks. READ MORE:* Coronavirus: As queues grow, Covid-19 testing priorities change* Coronovirus: Sewage testing could stop Covid-19 outbreaks* Coronavirus: Between testing lab and hospital, doctor goes 'where I can make the most difference'* Coronavirus: Sewage testing for Covid-19 begins this weekESR first trialled sewage testing for the coronavirus in mid-April, targeting areas with significant outbreaks like Matamata and Wellington. Now, that work will continue with the testing of sewage from managed isolation and quarantine facilities housing returnees from overseas. Bloomfield said the Ministry of Health would shortly be releasing a surveillance plan, which would include widespread community testing, sewage testing and symptom monitoring efforts.

Source: Stuff June 30, 2020 21:11 UTC