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COVID-19 wastewater numbers decrease in Saskatoon, Prince Albert

Recent wastewater-based epidemiology report shows data have decreased for the viral RNA load in Saskatoon and Prince Albert but increased in North Battleford. Files / Global News
Since the previous wastewater-based epidemiology report, data shows that Saskatoon’s wastewater has decreased as well as in Prince Albert.

The viral RNA load in Saskatoon’s wastewater has decreased by 31. 9 per cent as of Feb. 8, 2023. This week’s 54,000 gene copies/100 mL viral load is the 47th highest viral load observed during the pandemic in Saskatoon.

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“This level of the viral RNA load indicates that SARS-CoV-2 infection in Saskatoon needs continuous monitoring,” the report read.

Overall viral load found in the wastewater in Saskatoon. University of Saskatchewan

In Prince Albert, levels decreased by 72.4 per cent in the period leading up to Feb. 5, 2023. The viral load of 40,000 gene copies/100 mL measured this week is the “fifty-five highest value observed during the pandemic in Prince Albert,” the report said.

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According to the report, the concentration of viral particles is considered “low” because it is lower than 50,000 gene copies /100 mL and is considered as the low level in Prince Albert.

“This week’s viral RNA load indicates that the SARS-CoV-2 infections in Prince Albert are reducing,” the report read.

Overall viral load found in the wastewater in Prince Albert. University of Saskatchewan

The viral RNA load in North Battleford’s wastewater has increased by 146.7 per cent up to February 5, 2023. According to the report, the viral load of 110,0000 gene copies/100 mL measured this week is considered high level in North Battleford.

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“This concentration is the twenty-two-highest value observed during the pandemic in North Battleford,” the report read. “This week’s viral RNA load indicates that the SARS-CoV-2 infection in North Battleford is increasing.”

Overall viral load found in the wastewater in North Battleford. University of Saskatchewan

The wastewater-based epidemiology monitors for SARS-CoV-2 by the University of Saskatchewan (USask) and Global Water Futures researchers in Saskatoon, Prince Albert, and North Battleford. This reporting provides an early warning of infection outbreaks.

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