Wastewater tests can find mpox, study finds. Expect more bugs to be tracked that way

Wastewater testing is effective for detecting infections like mpox, with a 32% likelihood of detection over a week. The detection rate rises to 76% when 15 or more cases are present. This method, initially prominent during COVID-19, now monitors other diseases, including antibiotic-resistant germs and food poisoning bugs.

The CDC's wastewater monitoring system is still incomplete, with only about a quarter of U.S. counties reporting data. It serves as an early warning system for outbreaks before doctor-reported cases. Comparing its sensitivity to diseases like mpox and COVID-19 is challenging due to variations in diseases and diagnostic reporting.

The CDC's wastewater surveillance efforts are expanding to include flu, RSV, antibiotic-resistant germs, and food poisoning bugs, alongside its focus on COVID-19 and mpox. This tool has exceeded expectations and holds promise for better understanding and managing diseases within communities.