One significant challenge with SARS-CoV-2 wastewater monitoring is the lack of optimized and standardized sample processing steps, from sample collection to RNA detection. Viral concentration methods, sampling variability, viral genome stability and the sensitivity of the detection assay are all crucial considerations for designing a testing strategy. In this session, we’ll talk about a wastewater monitoring workflow (digital PCR-based), which overcomes variability and inhibitor problems – without relying on standard curves. To tackle the challenges during sample preparation, we’ll be looking at getting higher yields in RNA extraction from difficult samples, and inhibitor removal to reduce the chance of contamination and downstream inhibition. With dPCR, we’ll explain how absolute quantification offers higher precision and detection sensitivity even in complex wastewater samples with inhibitors and varying viral load.