COVID-19 genetic material has been found in fecal matter, but more work is needed to determine if the virus can be spread through stool because, so far, researchers have only detected viral RNA in the feces, rather than infectious virus.
Genetic material is less worrisome than infectious amounts of viable virus found in stool since the infectious virus might be transmitted to others through feces — like hepatitis A and norovirus. The infectious form also can impose serious implications, especially for those working in the restaurant industry, nursing homes, day cares and other similar businesses.
Source: Newswise May 14, 2020