7/30/21 - New Research Hopes to Detect Covid-19 Earlier

This new research could lead to an earlier warning of a potential outbreak.

Grand Valley State University researchers plan to work with local health departments to test for genetic markers of Covid-19 in wastewater.

The University plans to work with Kent and Ottawa County Health Departments over the next two years to test and detect the virus that's impacted every aspect of West Michigan society.

Professor Pei-Lan Tsou says the relationship with the Health Departments provide a great opportunity for students to experience practical use of technologies learned in the classroom.

"This molecular monitoring of environmental samples, like wastewater, is an increasingly powerful tool for disease surveillance and we, and our students, are excited to be providing this service to the health department."

The early detection could provide up to a week's warning of a potential outbreak or increase in cases.