Viral Surveillance Discussion — Lungfish Forecast
The most recent week with data shows a pronounced increase in several enteric and respiratory viruses compared to both long-term and seasonal averages, with notable surges in rhinoviruses, enteroviruses, and parechoviruses. SARS-CoV-2 levels remain elevated and well above recent averages, while influenza and RSV markers are absent or below detection limits. Several parainfluenza viruses and seasonal coronaviruses are present at low levels, with some detections near the assay’s limit of confidence. The overall pattern suggests active transmission of a broad range of respiratory and enteric viruses, with particular intensity among non-influenza pathogens.
Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2
SARS-CoV-2 levels in the latest week with data are elevated, substantially exceeding both the long-term and seasonal averages, as well as the previous 4-week average. This suggests ongoing and intensified community transmission. SARS-CoV-2 spreads primarily through respiratory droplets and aerosols, causing symptoms ranging from mild upper respiratory illness to severe pneumonia. Vaccines and updated boosters remain available and effective at reducing severe outcomes. Wastewater signals can precede clinical trends, so continued vigilance is advised.
Influenza A
No Influenza A virus was detected in the latest week with data, which is below both the long-term and seasonal averages, as well as the previous 4-week average. This includes all subtypes (H1N1, H3N2, H5N1). Influenza A typically peaks in colder months and spreads via respiratory droplets. Symptoms include fever, cough, and body aches. Annual vaccination is recommended and remains the most effective preventive measure.
Influenza B
No Influenza B was detected in the latest week with data, remaining well below historical and seasonal averages. Influenza B also circulates primarily in winter and causes similar symptoms to Influenza A. Vaccination is available and effective.
Pneumovirus RSV-A & RSV-B
Both RSV-A and RSV-B were not detected in the latest week with data, remaining below long-term and seasonal averages. RSV is a major cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in infants and older adults, spreading via respiratory droplets. Vaccines and monoclonal antibodies are available for high-risk groups.
Enterovirus B, Enterovirus C, Enterovirus D68, Enterovirus Other A, Enterovirus A71
Enterovirus B, C, D68, Other A, and A71 all show marked increases in the latest week with data, far exceeding long-term, seasonal, and recent averages. Enteroviruses spread via fecal-oral and respiratory routes, causing a range of illnesses from mild respiratory symptoms to severe neurologic disease. No vaccines are available for most types, except for polio. Good hand hygiene is recommended.
Parechovirus A, Parechovirus 3
Parechovirus A and Parechovirus 3 are present at elevated levels, well above historical and seasonal norms. Parechoviruses are spread via fecal-oral and respiratory routes and can cause mild to severe illness, particularly in infants. No vaccines are available.
Rhinovirus (total), Rhinovirus A, Rhinovirus B, Rhinovirus C
Rhinovirus levels are sharply elevated, with all subtypes far above long-term, seasonal, and recent averages. Rhinoviruses are the most common cause of the common cold, spreading via respiratory droplets and contaminated surfaces. Symptoms are usually mild, but can exacerbate asthma and other respiratory conditions. No vaccines are available.
Parainfluenza 1, Parainfluenza 2
Parainfluenza 1 and 2 were detected in the latest week with data, with levels near the assay’s limit of detection and lower confidence. These viruses are absent in the previous four weeks. Parainfluenza viruses cause croup and other respiratory illnesses, especially in children, and spread via respiratory droplets. No vaccines are available.
Coronavirus 229E
Coronavirus 229E was detected at low levels in the latest week with data, near the assay’s limit of detection and with lower confidence. This virus was absent in the previous four weeks. Coronavirus 229E is a seasonal coronavirus causing mild upper respiratory symptoms. No vaccines are available.
Other Pathogens
No detection was observed for Influenza C, Metapneumovirus, Human bocavirus, Parvovirus B19, and several other seasonal coronaviruses and parainfluenza types. These viruses typically cause mild to moderate respiratory or gastrointestinal symptoms.
Summary and Implications
Wastewater signals from the latest week with data indicate active transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and a broad range of enteric and respiratory viruses, with particularly high levels of rhinoviruses, enteroviruses, and parechoviruses. Influenza and RSV remain absent, suggesting low current risk for these pathogens. Community members are encouraged to maintain respiratory hygiene, stay home when ill, and ensure vaccination for SARS-CoV-2 and influenza where eligible. Individuals at higher risk for severe disease should be especially cautious in crowded or poorly ventilated settings. Continued monitoring is warranted as viral activity remains dynamic.