Routine wastewater testing by the Department of Health has returned positive results for viral fragments of COVID-19 in sewage at treatment plants at Townsville, Nambour and Rockhampton.
The findings follow similar readings at Mackay South, Goodna, Wacol and Carole Park.
Chief Health Officer, Jeannette Young said positive sewage results were cause for the community to be alert, but not alarmed.
“A positive sewage result means that someone who has been infected, or is currently infected, is shedding the virus,” Dr Young said.
“Infected people can shed viral fragments and that shedding can happen for several weeks to months after the person is no longer infectious.”
She said this did not necessarily mean there were new cases of COVID-19 in these communities, “but I will once again stress the need to be vigilant with any COVID-19 symptoms”.
Dr Young called on effected community members to get tested immediately if they had any COVID-19 symptoms, no matter how mild.
“If there is a case in the community, it is critical we detect it through our testing mechanisms as quickly as possible to contain any potential spread and protect the great progress Queensland has made in recent months,” she said.
“I also want to reassure the community that local drinking water is thoroughly treated through processes that are designed to remove or kill micro-organisms before they reach your taps.
“There is no risk when drinking water, showering, watering the garden, swimming or other activities,” the Chief Health Officer said.
