Cleveland health officials are warning residents about a sharp increase in COVID-19 levels detected in the city’s wastewater. Recent samples showed viral concentrations that are more than 250% higher than the previous month’s average, triggering notification thresholds set by the Ohio Department of Health.
The Cleveland Department of Public Health attributes this to the fact that increasing viral concentrations in wastewater often signal future spikes in illness and transmission. Director David Margolius said, “This data provides us with an early warning system, and we’re encouraging residents and institutions to take preventive steps now.”
Wastewater surveillance has become a key tool for tracking community infection trends. In addition to the COVID-19 virus surge, the same samples revealed high levels of influenza. Residents are urged to stay up to date on vaccinations for both COVID-19 and the flu, and those experiencing respiratory symptoms should stay home or wear a mask if needed.
The department will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.
Source: https://www.cleveland.com/news/2025/06/cleveland-issues-public-health-alert-after-spike-in-covid-19-detected-in-wastewater.html