At Harris County Public Health (HCPH), we use wastewater surveillance to help identify trends in community health and provide early insight into illnesses that may be spreading.

When someone is infected with a virus, like influenza (flu), Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), or SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), traces of that virus exit the body when they use the restroom and enter the wastewater system, even before they feel sick or seek medical care. Samples of untreated sewage are taken from local utility plants, before going through any cleaning, and are tested in a laboratory for specific health threats.

By testing wastewater from communities across Harris County, HCPH can monitor changes in disease activity and provide information that helps community members, healthcare providers, elected officials, and public health teams better prepare and respond.

Wastewater surveillance is one more tool we use to help keep Harris County informed, prepared, and healthy.

Wastewater Partner Testimonial Video