Viral Surveillance Discussion – Lungfish Platform
The most recent week with data (sample date: 2025-10-21) in Columbia, MO wastewater shows a mixed pattern of enteric virus activity. Several key pathogens, including norovirus genogroup II and rotavirus C, remain present at moderate levels compared to long-term and seasonal averages, while others such as rotavirus A and hepatitis A remain low or undetectable. Notably, astrovirus (other) and sapporo virus are elevated relative to historical norms, suggesting increased circulation. Several adenovirus types and rotavirus B remain below detection thresholds, with confidence lower for those reads. Overall, the latest week’s data indicate ongoing transmission of a range of enteric viruses, with some shifts in prevalence compared to recent weeks.
Noroviruses
Norovirus genogroup II continues to be detected at moderate levels in the latest week with data, remaining below both long-term and seasonal averages but comparable to the recent 4-week average. This suggests ongoing but not heightened transmission.
Norovirus genogroup I is present at moderate levels, slightly below historical norms and in line with recent weeks.
Norovirus genogroup IV is detected at low levels, near the assay’s limit of detection, with confidence lower for these reads. Noroviruses are primarily transmitted via the fecal-oral route, often through contaminated food, water, or surfaces. Symptoms include acute gastroenteritis—vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Norovirus activity typically increases in colder months. There are currently no licensed vaccines for norovirus; prevention relies on hand hygiene and surface disinfection.
Rotaviruses
Rotavirus A remains well below both long-term and seasonal averages in the latest week with data, indicating low community circulation.
Rotavirus B is undetectable, and
Rotavirus C is present at moderate levels, slightly above historical norms and much higher than recent weeks, suggesting a possible uptick in transmission. Rotaviruses spread via the fecal-oral route and cause severe diarrhea, especially in young children. Licensed vaccines are available for rotavirus A and are highly effective in reducing severe disease and hospitalizations. Vaccination is recommended for infants.
Astroviruses
Astrovirus (other) is present at elevated levels in the latest week with data, exceeding both long-term and seasonal averages and markedly higher than the recent 4-week average.
Astrovirus MLB is detected at moderate levels, below historical averages but increased compared to recent weeks.
Astrovirus VA is undetectable. Astroviruses are transmitted via the fecal-oral route and cause mild to moderate gastroenteritis, primarily in children and immunocompromised individuals. No vaccines are currently available; prevention focuses on hygiene and sanitation.
Sapporo Virus
Sapporo virus is detected at elevated levels in the latest week with data, well above both long-term and seasonal averages and higher than the recent 4-week average. Sapporo virus causes acute gastroenteritis, especially in children, and is transmitted via the fecal-oral route. No vaccines are available.
Kobuvirus
Kobuvirus aichi is present at low levels, below historical and seasonal averages and near the assay’s limit of detection, with confidence lower for these reads. Kobuvirus is associated with mild gastroenteritis and is transmitted via the fecal-oral route. No vaccines are available.
Adenoviruses (Enteric Types)
Adenovirus F40 is undetectable in the latest week with data.
Adenovirus F41 and
Human mastadenovirus A are detected at very low levels, near the assay’s limit of detection, with lower confidence.
Human mastadenovirus F is also present at low levels with reduced confidence. Other adenovirus types (B, C, D) remain undetectable. Enteric adenoviruses cause gastroenteritis, primarily in children, and are transmitted via the fecal-oral route. No vaccines are available for enteric adenovirus types.
Picobirnavirus
Picobirnavirus is detected at moderate levels, above both long-term and seasonal averages and higher than the recent 4-week average. Picobirnavirus is associated with mild gastroenteritis and is transmitted via the fecal-oral route. No vaccines are available.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A remains undetectable in the latest week with data, consistent with recent weeks and below historical averages. Hepatitis A is transmitted via the fecal-oral route and can cause acute liver inflammation. A highly effective vaccine is available and recommended for children and at-risk adults.
Summary and Implications
Wastewater data from the latest week with data indicate ongoing circulation of several enteric viruses, with notable increases in astrovirus (other), sapporo virus, rotavirus C, and picobirnavirus compared to recent weeks and historical norms. Norovirus genogroup II and rotavirus A remain present at moderate to low levels, while hepatitis A and several adenovirus types are undetectable or near assay limits. Community members are advised to maintain diligent hand hygiene, especially before eating and after bathroom use, and to disinfect surfaces regularly. Parents should ensure children are up to date on rotavirus and hepatitis A vaccinations. Food handlers and those working in group settings should be particularly vigilant to prevent transmission. Individuals experiencing symptoms of gastroenteritis should stay home and avoid preparing food for others until symptoms resolve.