U of R wastewater analysis says COVID viral loads again are high

The latest wastewater analysis by researchers at the University of Regina has shown an increase in the COVID-19 viral load.

According to a Facebook post from the university, the viral load has risen “significantly” and once again is considered high after decreased levels in the previous two weeks.

“It is not clear yet whether BA.5 or BA.4 are involved in the recent increase in viral load,” the post said, referring to two mutations of the virus.

The post noted that preliminary data said the level “might not increase further in the following week.”

The highest levels in the viral load in Regina were detected in mid-December of 2020 and April of 2021, when the Queen City recorded its highest infection rates prior to the detection of the Omicron variant.