Measles cases have increased in the US, with 14 outbreaks reported in 33 states so far this year, according to the CDC. The rising number of cases is attributed to a declining measles vaccination rate across the country. In contrast, 2024 saw only 16 outbreaks reported nationwide.
To combat the surge in cases, researchers have developed a new method to track the spread of the virus: wastewater surveillance. For the first time, scientists are monitoring national information on where the measles virus is present in wastewater. This approach can provide an early warning system for health officials, helping them respond to outbreaks more effectively.
The wastewater surveillance network, WastewaterSCAN, began testing sewage for COVID-19 in 2020 and has since added other disease-causing microbes to its menu. The latest test detects signs of the active measles virus within 48 hours, using samples from nearly 150 sewage sites across the country.
So far, the network has detected measles in three sites: Hollywood, Maryland; Sacramento; and Stamford, Connecticut. While WastewaterSCAN is the first national-level wastewater surveillance system for measles, other state health departments also test wastewater samples.
Wastewater monitoring can bypass traditional reporting methods, which rely on patients seeking medical care and testing positive for the virus. This approach can catch evidence of the virus earlier, helping to contain outbreaks before they spread further. By analyzing trends and patterns in wastewater data, public-health departments can focus resources like vaccines on areas where infections are spreading.
The best way to protect against measles is through vaccination, which provides close-to-lifelong immunity. Ensuring that eligible individuals are up-to-date on their measles vaccines can help prevent infection and transmission.
Source: https://time.com/7290566