Researchers have launched several projects to test coronavirus levels at hospitals and schools to identify new outbreaks. The new projects are using similar sewage testing methods that some cities and countries around the world have already used. Earlier efforts centered on wastewater tests in order to follow the progression of the coronavirus over large population areas. But the new programs aim to test sewage from single buildings, such as hospitals, schools, and care centers. The coronavirus is mainly spread through small drops coming from an infected person’s mouth and nose. But studies have shown that it can also be released through human waste. The researchers say testing wastewater can help identify where the virus is spreading and reduce the need for mass testing.