Wastewater Assessment for Coronavirus in Kentucky: Implementing Enhanced Surveillance Technology

Background: This study accomplished both developing next generation wastewater assessment technology and implementing and evaluating the next generation wastewater assay. Materials/Methods: Study methodology included field results validated in the lab. A robust mixed methods evaluation using the RE-AIM framework assessed community perceptions of feasibility, acceptability, and utility of wastewater surveillance for SARS-CoV-2 and identified community measures taken in response to test results. Outcome/Impact: Outcomes revealed that wastewater testing for SARS-CoV-2 in rural communities using field-friendly technology provided important information to local authorities and citizens about the spread and trend of SARS-CoV-2 infection in their communities.