A NWSS Center of Excellence supporting data-driven responses to tackle critical public health threats
Wastewater Surveillance
Wastewater surveillance, or wastewater-based epidemiology, is an innovative public health tool that analyzes wastewater to detect the presence of viruses and other pathogens in a community. This method provides a comprehensive view of community health trends and aids in informing public health decision-making and interventions.
As a cost-effective and non-invasive strategy, wastewater surveillance has become an essential tool in protecting public health and enhancing community resilience against health threats.
Since August 2024, the New York State Department of Health and Syracuse University have led the New York NWSS Center of Excellence. Together, we serve as regional leaders advancing wastewater surveillance for public health.
The New York NWSS Center of Excellence supports the following states and territories: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Vermont.
New York NWSS Center of Excellence.
“Since its inception, the Department's wastewater surveillance has been a key part of the State's most critical public health responses.”
— NYS Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald
Learn more about wastewater surveillance with the NYS Department of Health.
Wastewater surveillance helps health departments and the health care community protect public health.