Incidence and temporal distribution of SARS-CoV-2 circulating in the municipal wastewaters of the Buffalo City region, Eastern Cape, South Africa

351 (72 %) possessed the nucleocapsid protein gene, signifying SARS-CoV-2 RNA in the municipal wastewater. A time series analysis revealed relatively higher SARS-CoV-2 RNA counts in autumn (2022). A moderate correlation (<i>r</i> = 0.43) was observed between the SARS-CoV-2 RNA and the estimated number of infected individuals. Nonetheless, the pervasiveness of SARS-CoV-2 in this environment is of critical public health significance, offering a valuable indicator of community-level viral spread. The present study's findings substantiate our understanding that wastewater possesses pathogens of interest, emphasize the importance of monitoring wastewater.