Can We Predict Viral Outbreaks Using Wastewater Surveillance?

Abstract

Yes, it is possible—but the approach needs to go above and beyond simple surveillance of wastewater. Recently, a lot of attention has been paid in wastewater testing for monitoring COVID-19. Effective detection of SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater is a critical first step in the development of prediction models. However, detection in wastewater by itself is not adequate for prediction purposes. For accurate identification and prediction, many more measurements, data, and processes need to be included in the analysis.