(SitNews) Ketchikan, Alaska - The first set of wastewater testing results was received onMay 27th. Acording to information provided by the Ketchikan Emergency Operations Center (EOC), the data was compiled from a May 7th sample and showed that there was no detection of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the wastewater as of that date. 

The wastewater testing has been done through the City of Ketchikan Wastewater Treatment Facility to detect whether there is a presence of COVID-19 in Ketchikan.

The testing is conducted each week by collecting a 24-hour composite sample. COVID-19 can be detected in wastewater before someone becomes symptomatic, if they become symptomatic at all. 

The test results can help the Ketchikan Emergency Operations Center (EOC) policy group make more informed decisions relative to when or when not to lift restrictions.  The data will also be shared with the Alaska Department of Conservation (DEC) for statewide consideration. Ketchikan Emergency Operations Center (EOC) are hopeful that they also will receive data from other Alaska communities. 

Hand Sanitizer Refill Stations are Ongoing 

The Ketchikan Emergency Operations Center reported that many citizens are taking advantage of the hand sanitizer refill stations that have been placed throughout the community by the EOC.  With assistance from the City of Ketchikan Public Works Department, the EOC has procured and developed a quantity of hand sanitizer that is available for the public.  The hand sanitizer solution is a “no-frills” formula. It is not a thick gel, and it is not fragranced, but it is highly effective for killing germs. Gallon-sized refill containers have been set up at the following locations:

• Ketchikan City Hall
• Ketchikan Ports and Harbors building
• Ketchikan Police Department
• KPU Customer Service in the Plaza
• KGB White Cliff Building
• Gateway Recreation Center
• Saxman IRA Building; 2706 South Tongass Hwy
• North Tongass Fire Department Station 8 (Mile 13 North Tongass Hwy)

On the Web:

Ketchikan Emergency Operations Center (EOC) information and the response to the COVID-19 outbreak in Ketchikan is updated daily on the COVID-19 Response page at https://www.kgbak.us/913/COVID-19-Response. 

Alaska COVID-19 Daily Updates - Case Counts, etc. and
 www.covid19.alaska.gov

All Alaska Health Mandates: COVID-19 Health Mandates, Office of the Governor

Edited By Mary Kauffman, SitNews

Source of News:

Ketchikan Emergency Operations Center
https://www.kgbak.us/913/COVID-19-Response

Representations of fact and opinions in comments posted are solely those of the individual posters and do not represent the opinions of Sitnews.

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