At Tentamus Group, we are happy to announce the launch of a new web tool capable of combining the results of the analysis of the coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) in wastewater together with indicators of health evolution: TENTAMUS WATCHER.
The software generates graphics and visual information about the evolution of the coronavirus in cities and municipalities. It also provides alerts of possible outbreaks. Therefore, the tool allows public authorities to anticipate and improve the decision making.
The detection of mild or asymptomatic cases through wastewater testing has become a fundamental epidemiological tool for early warning of the presence of SARS-CoV-2, both at the present time and in possible outbreaks or second waves of infection.
The laboratories of Tentamus Group have developed a methodology that includes the following steps:
The software generates graphics and visual information about the evolution of the coronavirus in cities and municipalities. It also provides alerts of possible outbreaks. Therefore, the tool allows public authorities to anticipate and improve the decision making.
The detection of mild or asymptomatic cases through wastewater testing has become a fundamental epidemiological tool for early warning of the presence of SARS-CoV-2, both at the present time and in possible outbreaks or second waves of infection.
The laboratories of Tentamus Group have developed a methodology that includes the following steps:
- Sampling points selection
The first step is to create (in agreement with the local authorities) a dynamic map of the municipality or city by sectoring key places such as buildings or high occupancy places (hotels, campsites, schools, shopping centres, hospitals, elderly people’s homes, health centres etc.), in addition to the waste water treatment plant in the region of influence. - Data collection
Additional demographic and geographic data will be collected which could affect the results obtained to some extent. - Sample testing
The testing procedure we have developed is very reliable, since it is based on the PCR technique that detects virus’ RNA, and its specificity and sensitivity level are high.
The method includes the filtration and centrifugation of the sample prior to the RNA analysis to eliminate interferers (solids, bacteriae, etc.) and ends with the virus concentration stage. One of the strong points of our methodology is the addition, during the extraction and concentration phase, of a control virus (Mengovirus) that allows us to control the efficiency of the process. - Results monitoring and assessment
All data obtained will be introduced into our web tool TENTAMUS WATCHER. This platform will allow the managers to visualize graphically the data obtained. TENTAMUS WATCHER includes a health indicator system that alerts of possible virus outbreaks and facilitates tracing the origin of SARS-CoV-2 when it is detected.
