Viral Wastewater Discussion - Columbia, MO (Enteric)

VIRAL FORECAST DISCUSSION The most recent week with data shows a mixed pattern among enteric viruses in Columbia’s wastewater. Rotavirus C and Astrovirus (other) remain notably elevated compared to long-term and seasonal averages, while Norovirus genogroup II and Rotavirus A are below typical levels for this time of year. Several viruses, including Norovirus genogroup I, Astrovirus VA, and Sapporo virus, are near or slightly below their historical averages. Some adenoviruses and hepatitis A were not detected in the latest week, continuing a trend of low or absent signals. A few viruses, such as Human mastadenovirus B and Picobirnavirus, were detected at higher levels than their long-term averages, while others remain near or below detection limits. The overall pattern suggests ongoing circulation of multiple enteric viruses, with particular increases in certain rotaviruses and astroviruses. Noroviruses

• Norovirus genogroup II was detected at levels below both the long-term and seasonal averages, but higher than the recent 4-week average, indicating a modest increase from recent weeks. This virus is a leading cause of acute gastroenteritis, spreading primarily through person-to-person contact, contaminated food, or surfaces. Symptoms include sudden onset vomiting and diarrhea. Norovirus activity typically peaks in colder months, but sporadic cases can occur year-round. There is no licensed vaccine for norovirus; prevention relies on hand hygiene and surface disinfection.
• Norovirus genogroup I levels have decreased compared to the previous 4-week average and are close to long-term and seasonal baselines. Transmission and symptoms are similar to genogroup II, with outbreaks often linked to foodborne sources. No vaccine is available.
• Norovirus genogroup IV was not detected in the latest week, consistent with low recent activity and below historical averages. This genogroup is less commonly detected and has similar transmission routes and symptoms as other noroviruses.

Rotaviruses

• Rotavirus A was detected at levels well below long-term and seasonal averages but above the recent 4-week average, suggesting a slight uptick. Rotavirus A is a major cause of severe diarrhea in young children and is transmitted primarily via the fecal-oral route. Symptoms include watery diarrhea, vomiting, and fever. Rotavirus vaccines are available and effective at reducing severe disease.
• Rotavirus C was detected at levels much higher than both long-term and seasonal averages, as well as the previous 4-week average. This indicates a notable increase in circulation. Rotavirus C can cause gastroenteritis in children and adults, with similar transmission and symptoms to other rotaviruses. There is no licensed vaccine for rotavirus C.
• Rotavirus B was not detected in the latest week, consistent with low historical activity and below recent averages. This virus is less common in the United States.

Astroviruses

• Astrovirus (other) remained elevated compared to long-term and seasonal averages, with levels also higher than the recent 4-week average. Astroviruses are transmitted via the fecal-oral route and cause mild to moderate diarrhea, primarily in young children and immunocompromised individuals. No vaccine is available.
• Astrovirus MLB was detected at levels below historical and seasonal averages but similar to the recent 4-week average. This group is less well understood but is associated with gastrointestinal symptoms.
• Astrovirus VA was present at levels close to long-term and seasonal averages and higher than the recent 4-week average, suggesting a moderate increase in activity.

Sapporo virus

• Sapporo virus was detected at levels below long-term and seasonal averages, and similar to the recent 4-week average. This virus causes outbreaks of gastroenteritis, especially in children, with symptoms similar to norovirus. No vaccine is available.

Kobuvirus

• Kobuvirus aichi was detected at low levels, below long-term and seasonal averages, and similar to the recent 4-week average. This virus is associated with mild gastroenteritis, primarily transmitted via contaminated food or water.

Adenoviruses

• Adenovirus F41 was detected at levels below long-term and seasonal averages but above the recent 4-week average, indicating a slight increase. Adenovirus F41 is a common cause of pediatric gastroenteritis, spread via the fecal-oral route. No vaccine is available for general use.
• Adenovirus F40 was not detected in the latest week, consistent with low recent activity.
• Human mastadenovirus B was detected at higher levels than both long-term and recent averages, indicating increased detection. This group can cause a range of symptoms, including gastroenteritis, especially in children.
• Human mastadenovirus C was present at low levels, near the assay’s limit of detection, so confidence in this signal is lower. This type is less commonly associated with gastrointestinal illness.
• Human mastadenovirus A and Human mastadenovirus D were not detected in the latest week, consistent with low or absent recent activity.
• Human mastadenovirus F was detected at levels below long-term and seasonal averages but above the recent 4-week average, indicating a slight increase.

Picobirnavirus

• Picobirnavirus was detected at levels above long-term and seasonal averages, as well as the recent 4-week average. This virus is associated with gastrointestinal symptoms, particularly in immunocompromised individuals, but its clinical significance is still being studied.

Hepatitis A

• Hepatitis A was not detected in the latest week, despite being present in the previous 4-week average. Hepatitis A is transmitted via the fecal-oral route and can cause acute liver inflammation. A highly effective vaccine is available and recommended for at-risk groups.

Summary and Implications

• Continue practicing thorough handwashing, especially before eating and after using the restroom, to reduce the risk of norovirus, rotavirus, and other enteric virus transmission.
• Ensure proper disinfection of surfaces in homes, childcare settings, and food preparation areas, as several viruses remain detectable in wastewater.
• Parents and caregivers should ensure children are up to date on rotavirus vaccination to reduce the risk of severe illness.
• Individuals with symptoms of gastroenteritis should avoid preparing food for others and stay home from group settings when possible to limit spread.
• Monitor for updates, as increases in rotavirus C and These viruses are included in this discussion. Norovirus genogroup II, Norovirus genogroup I, Norovirus genogroup IV, Rotavirus A, Rotavirus B, Rotavirus C, Astrovirus (other), Astrovirus MLB, Astrovirus VA, Sapporo virus, Kobuvirus aichi, Adenovirus F40, Adenovirus F41, Human mastadenovirus A, Human mastadenovirus B, Human mastadenovirus C, Human mastadenovirus D, Human mastadenovirus F, Picobirnavirus, Hepatitis A are included. The methodology for the analysis is available here link. DISCUSSION IS INFORMATIONAL AND SHOULD NOT BE USED FOR PUBLIC HEALTH OR MEDICAL DECISION MAKING