Measles cases in the U.S. have risen sharply due to decreasing vaccination rates, influenced largely by anti-vaccine sentiments. In 2025, 14 outbreaks have occurred across 33 states, showing a rise from the previous year's figures. Researchers have begun using wastewater surveillance as a proactive public health tool, allowing early detection of the measles virus, which can be shed in urine and feces. This method helps health officials track infectious disease patterns, presenting an opportunity to mitigate outbreaks before traditional testing methods can react.
For viruses like measles, which infected people shed in urine, feces, or saliva, wastewater surveillance can provide a critical heads-up for health officials.
With measles cases rising due to declining vaccination rates, wastewater testing offers a proactive approach to detect outbreaks early and efficiently.
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