Testing sewage for early warnings about COVID-19 : thematic discussion synthesis

Testing sewage can be an effective tool for monitoring the spread of the Sars-nCoV-2 virus in populations. An 'Indian' protocol is needed that takes into account the poor quality of sewage systems, challenges in transportation and testing of samples, and supports city and state governments to communicate with the public. A thematic online discussion hosted by the Sustainable Sanitation Alliance (SuSanA) in May-June 2020, elicited information on the components and challenges of such a protocol. This report synthesises the online discussion as well as the findings of a webinar on "Addressing stakeholder concerns around testing sewage for COVID-19" jointly organised by SuSanA, WaterAid India, IRC and the India Sanitation Coalition on 22 May 2020.