Coronavirus Since March 2019? Researchers Found Traces In Wastewater

Researchers at the University of Barcelona have detected the novel coronavirus in a frozen Barcelona wastewater which was taken nine months back in March 2019.

Researchers examined samples from two large wastewater treatment plants in Barcelona to detect the evolution of the virus in the city. The levels of SARS-CoV-2 were low but were positive.

If the research holds true, then it could spur the idea that Coronavirus originated from China. However, for now the research has been submitted for a peer review.

Albert Bosch, the study’s coordinator and president of the Spanish Society of Virology said, “All samples were negative regarding the SARS-CoV-2 genome presence except for March 12, 2019, in which the levels of SARS-CoV-2 were low but were positive, using two different targets”.

Scientists say that concluding anything now is too early and any strong statement could be given only when peer submits their report. There was the potential for a false positive due to the virus’ similarities with other respiratory infections.