Summary
During the most recent week with data, viral signals in Columbia’s wastewater showed a mixed pattern. Several respiratory viruses, including Parainfluenza 3, Enterovirus B, Enterovirus Other A, Parechovirus A, and Rhinovirus A were detected at levels above their long-term and seasonal averages, with some showing sustained or increasing activity compared to the previous four weeks. In contrast, SARS-CoV-2 and most influenza viruses remained at very low levels, well below historical and seasonal norms. Several common respiratory viruses, including Influenza B, RSV-A, and RSV-B, were not detected in the latest week with data. Notably, Coronavirus 229E was detected at low levels after being absent in the previous four weeks, though confidence in this detection is limited due to low read counts.
SARS-CoV-2
The most recent week with data showed SARS-CoV-2 levels near the assay’s limit of detection, with confidence in detection lower than usual. Virus levels remain far below both the long-term and seasonal averages, as well as below the previous four-week average. SARS-CoV-2 is primarily spread through respiratory droplets and aerosols, causing symptoms ranging from mild respiratory illness to severe pneumonia. Vaccines and antiviral treatments remain available and are effective at reducing severe disease and transmission.
Influenza A (H1N1, H3N2, H5N1)
No Influenza A viruses were detected in the most recent week with data, continuing a trend of low to absent levels in recent weeks. This is well below both the long-term and seasonal averages. Influenza A viruses are transmitted via respiratory droplets and can cause fever, cough, and body aches. Annual vaccination is the primary preventive measure and is recommended for all eligible individuals.
Influenza B
Influenza B was not detected in the latest week with data, remaining below long-term and seasonal averages and consistent with recent weeks. Like Influenza A, Influenza B spreads through respiratory droplets and can cause similar symptoms. Vaccination is available and effective.
RSV-A and RSV-B
Neither RSV-A nor RSV-B were detected in the latest week with data, with levels remaining below historical and seasonal norms. RSV is a common cause of respiratory illness in young children and older adults, typically peaking in the fall and winter. Preventive monoclonal antibodies and vaccines are available for certain high-risk groups.
Parainfluenza 3
Parainfluenza 3 was detected at elevated levels in the latest week with data, above both long-term and seasonal averages, though slightly lower than the previous four-week average. This virus is spread by respiratory droplets and can cause croup, bronchitis, and pneumonia, especially in young children. No licensed vaccine is currently available.
Enterovirus B and Enterovirus Other A
Both Enterovirus B and Enterovirus Other A were detected at levels well above their long-term and seasonal averages, and higher than the previous four-week average. Enteroviruses are transmitted via the fecal-oral route and respiratory droplets, causing a range of symptoms from mild cold-like illness to more severe neurological disease. There are no vaccines for most enteroviruses.
Parechovirus A
Parechovirus A was detected at elevated levels, above long-term and seasonal averages, and higher than the previous four-week average. Parechoviruses are spread primarily via the fecal-oral route and can cause mild gastrointestinal or respiratory symptoms, with rare severe outcomes in infants. No vaccine is available.
Rhinovirus A and Rhinovirus (total)
Rhinovirus A and total rhinovirus levels remain elevated compared to long-term and seasonal averages, though both are lower than the previous four-week average. Rhinoviruses are the most common cause of the common cold, spread by respiratory droplets and contaminated surfaces. No vaccine is available.
Coronavirus 229E
Coronavirus 229E was detected at low levels in the latest week with data, after being absent in the previous four weeks. The read count is near the assay’s limit of detection, so confidence is lower. Coronavirus 229E typically causes mild upper respiratory symptoms and is transmitted via respiratory droplets. No vaccine is available.
Other Respiratory Viruses
Other monitored respiratory viruses, including Influenza C, Parainfluenza 1, Parainfluenza 2, Parainfluenza 4, Human bocavirus, Coronavirus HKU1, Coronavirus NL63, Coronavirus OC43, Enterovirus A71, Enterovirus C, Enterovirus D68, Metapneumovirus, and Rhinovirus B and Rhinovirus C, were either not detected or present at low levels in the latest week with data, and remain below historical and seasonal averages.
Summary and Implications
Wastewater signals indicate continued low activity for SARS-CoV-2, influenza viruses, and RSV, with no evidence of increased transmission risk from these pathogens in the latest week with data. However, elevated levels of Parainfluenza 3, Enterovirus B, Enterovirus Other A, Parechovirus A, and Rhinovirus A suggest ongoing circulation of these viruses in the community. Residents should continue to practice good hand hygiene, especially after using the restroom and before eating, and stay home when experiencing respiratory or gastrointestinal symptoms. Vaccination remains the most effective preventive measure for SARS-CoV-2 and influenza, and is strongly recommended for all eligible individuals. Those at higher risk for severe respiratory illness should remain attentive to symptoms and seek medical advice as needed.