"Tracking COVID-19 Mutations in Floodwaters Near Homeless Camps"

A study found that wastewater near homeless encampments contained SARS-CoV-2 genetic material, with 26% of samples testing positive and showing peak concentrations during the Omicron surge in Las Vegas. The water samples revealed viral mutations and transmission patterns, including 10 mutations specific to the Alpha variant and three novel spike protein mutations. The study highlights the importance of monitoring wastewater near homeless populations for understanding viral spread and mutations, but more data is needed to determine the impact on clinical outcomes for COVID-19 patients in these communities.