Ohio wastewater data signals early flu surge

By Farah Siddiqi

Ohio public health officials are urging residents to take precautions after wastewater data showed a sharp rise in influenza levels, an early signal flu cases could soon increase statewide.

Health leaders said monitoring untreated wastewater allows them to spot viral trends before hospitals see a surge in patients.

Dr. David Margolius, director of public health for the City of Cleveland, said the data now point to flu season arriving earlier and more intensely than some may expect.

"The wastewater surveillance is showing a pretty dramatic uptick in the amount of influenza that they are seeing," Margolius noted. "This is an early predictor for what we'll be seeing in terms of the number of cases, emergency room visits, and hospitalizations."

Margolius pointed out the data give communities time to act before emergency rooms become overwhelmed. He explained while flu patterns remain fairly typical compared to recent years, the warning signs are already clear. State and local agencies issue flu alerts after two consecutive wastewater samples exceed established detection thresholds. Officials said rising viral concentrations often precede higher transmission, case counts and hospitalizations, giving communities time to promote prevention measures.

Public health officials emphasize vaccination as the most effective protection, especially as colder weather limits access to mobile clinics. Margolius added residents should choose the most convenient and trusted option available to them.

"Folks should know that flu season has arrived," Margolius stressed. "It's not too late to get your flu shot and be protected for this flu season."

He added people who begin feeling sick should take steps to reduce the spread of illness, including staying home when possible and limiting contact with others.

Health officials said wastewater monitoring will continue throughout the respiratory season and may prompt additional alerts. They emphasized early vaccination and basic prevention steps could help reduce severe illness and ease pressure on Ohio hospitals in the weeks ahead.

This story was produced in association with Media in the Public Interest and funded in part by the George Gund Foundation.