Wastewater-based epidemiology is the public health tool of the future. An early warning tool that harnesses public waste, wastewater-based surveillance can detect chemicals and pathogens in local wastewater systems, thus providing public health officials with valuable information about the status of well-being in a community. WBE can be used to coordinate and direct resources to reduce disease spread and prevent infections. The approach has been shown to save money and, more importantly, lives.

WBE relies on analyzing samples of wastewater to detect target chemicals or pathogens. The YCEDA laboratory collaborates with community partners to obtain samples and, in the case of biological targets, detection and quantification utilizes specialized equipment. The laboratory instrumentation includes:  QIAcuity Digital PCR System and Illumina’s MiSeq Sequencing System. 

YCEDA Monitoring