As the state of Kansas is looking for partners to explore a new form of COVID-19 testing, Lyon County Commissioners are currently pondering the possibility.
The consideration comes following the quarterly CareArc report delivered by Executive Director Renee Hively. During that time Hively discussed the potential for “wastewater surveillance” which tests wastewater samples for the COVID virus.
Hively says there are several benefits to this proposed testing method, namely that it would be completely non-invasive and would allow advanced notice of potential outbreaks. Hively says that advance notice would allow for more effective prevention.
Hively adds wastewater surveillance has the potential for expansion in testing for other major diseases.
No decision has been made on the testing by Lyon County Commissioners and a timeline for when a decision could be made is currently pending.
Hively delivered these comments as part of the CareArc quarterly report to Lyon County Commissioners Thursday morning. Following the report, commissioners approved an updated agreement with CareArc to continue public health services for the county.
Separately Thursday, Lyon County Health Officer Dr. Ladun Oyenuga presented the monthly public health report. At the conclusion of her report, Dr. Oyenuga was asked to continue in her role as health officer, a request she accepted.
Dr. Oyenuga will join KVOE’s Morning Show at 8:20 am Monday.
The Lyon County Commission will reconvene for its weekly session next Thursday at 9 am inside of the Lyon County Courthouse Commission Chambers.
