CLEVELAND — We have received a number of questions about what is being done to treat the waste produced by those infected with COVID-19. 

Given how highly contagious the coronavirus is, it is important that we do everything in our power to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe while reducing the transmission of COVID-19.

We reached out to the experts at the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District for answers.

“Regarding the treatment of wastewater, the process at the plants has not been altered in response to COVID-19. On any given day, wastewater contains a significant amount of pollutants, human waste, and potential viruses. That is the nature of wastewater and why our industry has been, and will continue to be, focused on protecting human health and the environment.” said Jeannie Smith, the Communication and Community Relations Senior Manager.

“While the importance of managing wastewater is in the spotlight today during these unprecedented times, it was just as important pre-COVID-19 and it will be just as important when we resume normal day-to-day activity. Wastewater treatment is one of the most important public health investments in our community.” Jeannie Smith went on to say.