Early-warning system to protect and promote human health and inform Houston’s response to viral outbreaks
To address the challenge of anticipating and responding to prominent outbreaks of infectious diseases, such as COVID-19, Houston Wastewater Epidemiology has implemented a comprehensive, cost-effective system to monitor community infection dynamics of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus that causes COVID-19.
The science and innovation behind wastewater-based epidemiology is currently being scaled to monitor for influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), mpox, measles, and 29 potential pathogens.

Ferguson Fellowship supports development-translation of molecular detection methods for sexually transmitted pathogens
Houston health director retires after 21 years of active leadership
The workshop was held August 5 and 6, 2025, at Rice’s new Ralph S. O'Connor Building for Engineering and Science.
Analysis examines wastewater dynamics and viral trends over time
- September 2025
-
- October 2025
-
- November 2025
-
- December 2025
-