Water Surveillance

Wastewater Surveillance Program

The Wastewater Surveillance Program at RUHS Public Health Laboratory supports community health by monitoring wastewater for early detection of infectious diseases.

Public Health Impact

• Provides early detection of disease trends in community.
• Helps identify outbreaks before clinical reporting increases.
• Supports data-driven public health decision-making.
• Monitors disease spread at a community-wide level.

Wastewater Facility Participation

• Wastewater surveillance across the U.S. began in September 2020
• Over 1,300 wastewater facilities participate nationwide
• Covers approximately 142 million people ( ~42% of the U.S. population)
• California includes approximately 85 participation facilities.

Organisms Currently Monitored

Influenza A & B

Highly contagious respiratory viruses that can cause severe illness, hospitalizations, and death-especially in young children, older adults, and high-risk populations. They mutate frequently, making early detection important as immunity and vaccine effectiveness change over time.

SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19)

The virus that causes COVID-19, which continues to circulate in waves driven by new variants. Because many infections are mild or asymptomatic and go unreported, wastewater data helps better reflect true community transmission.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

A leading cause of severe respiratory illness In infants and a significant health risk for older adults and vulnerable populations. It is often underdiagnosed, making surveillance important for understanding its true impact