Wastewater Based Epidemiology
In June 2024, WastewaterSCAN reduced their sampling sites. At that time, EBMUD paused sampling to transition from participation in the WastewaterSCAN project to data collection through the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).
EBMUD resumed collecting and providing wastewater surveillance samples in spring of 2025. Updates will be posted on this page. Links below provide data for Bay Area and national sampling sites.
Researchers have long known that wastewater can provide a window into the health of the community. When the COVID-19 pandemic began, researchers across the country quickly mobilized and partnered with wastewater agencies including EBMUD.
Whereas a typical coronavirus test provides results for one person, sampling wastewater for the presence of COVID-19 provides an assessment for a larger community. The results are a leading indicator of the status of the pandemic because infected individuals shed the virus in poop even before they show symptoms.
Since its start in 2020, EBMUD has been part of “Wastewater Epidemiology for the Bay Area,” a group which brings together wastewater utilities, public health officers, and laboratories to analyze Bay Area wastewater samples. EBMUD, along with wastewater utilities nationwide, has also contributed to a US Department of Health and Human Services sampling program, which provided weekly results to public health officials. This data helps public health and medical experts make important logistical and policy decisions regarding public health resources, shelter-in-place orders and educational outreach.
Current wastewater surveillance data for Bay Area and national sites can be found below.