B.C. wastewater virus testing funding at risk

Wastewater testing for viruses, which became important during the COVID-19 pandemic in British Columbia, is at risk of losing funding. The B.C. Centre for Disease Control now monitors wastewater for various viruses, including influenza and RSV. Previously, wastewater surveillance was not routinely used. The pandemic highlighted its value, allowing researchers to track virus levels effectively. However, funding cuts in provinces like Ontario and the end of a national research program raise concerns about the future of this surveillance. Researchers are now looking to expand studies to include gut pathogens and antimicrobial resistance. They emphasize the need for continued funding and data sharing to monitor emerging diseases effectively, especially as U.S. funding for similar programs decreases.