Wastewater Surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in a Prison Facility

Prison populations are unlikely to have access to prompt, effective medical care as the pandemic spreads. Wastewater surveillance offers a non-invasive, cost-effective approach to monitor the presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in congregate settings such as prisons, where routine clinical testing may be limited. By collecting and analyzing wastewater samples from prison facilities, public health officials can detect outbreaks early, allocate resources efficiently, and implement targeted interventions to protect vulnerable incarcerated individuals and staff.