On October 27, 2020, OHA began sharing data related to its statewide COVID-19 wastewater monitoring project. The data shows where the virus is detected in small- to medium-sized communities around the state. The data will be placed on a map with explanatory text on how to interpret it. The data will be updated weekly.
Ontario, Oregon is one of the communities tested. So far, the data shows that COVID-19 was detected from samples taken September 13 and September 20, 2020. No other sample dates were reported for Ontario at this time.
Currently there are 29 communities participating on the project. The monitoring serves as an “early warning” system to tell us if COVID-19 is spreading silently in communities. OHA launched this project in the early fall with funding from the CDC. The project is funded for 30 months
For more information please contact OHA’s principal investigators on this project:
- Melissa Sutton, MD, MPH, Medical Director, Respiratory Viral Pathogens Melissa.Sutton@dhsoha.state.or.us
- Paul R. Cieslak, MD, Medical Director, Communicable Diseases and Immunizations PAUL.R.CIESLAK@dhsoha.state.or.us
Malheur County Health Department 