Detecting and disinfecting SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater: techniques, challenges, and strategies

Numerous studies have reported the detection of SARS-CoV-2 genetic material in wastewater networks and treatment plants. The presence of SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater has raised concerns about the potential indirect transmission of COVID-19 via fecal-oral route, and the possibility of virus spread in domesticated and wild animals, which could lead the dissemination of the pathogen in future outbreaks through cross-infection. Knowing that inhibiting the spread of SARS-CoV-2 through aquatic matrices has proven to be of great importance as a control of COVID-19, in this review, the main techniques for detecting the SARS-CoV-2 in aquatic matrices and the main reports on the occurrence and viability of the virus in these environments were described. It was presented the mechanisms of inactivation or removal SARS-CoV-2 through primary sedimentation, secondary biological processes, tertiary chlorination, ozonation, ultraviolet irradiation, membrane filtration, and some of the current emerging technological perspectives, such as retention ponds, disinfection by sunlight, treatment with algae, photocatalysis, thermal treatment and ceramic membranes. The article also highlighted strategies concerning the integration of disinfection methods, decentralization of treatment plants, sewage monitoring, and major challenges faced by researchers and professionals engaged in the disinfection of the new coronavirus in this complex matrix.