Wastewater Reveals Surge in Kansas Viruses

Six viruses, including COVID-19 and flu, detected in Lawrence and Salina wastewater

Apr. 12, 2026 at 5:54am

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A ghostly, translucent X-ray photograph revealing the internal pipes and structures of a wastewater treatment plant, conceptually illustrating how wastewater data can uncover hidden health trends in a community.Wastewater data provides an early warning system for community health, uncovering hidden viral trends that traditional case reporting often misses.Lawrence Today

Wastewater surveillance in Kansas has detected elevated levels of six viral diseases, including COVID-19, influenza A and B, RSV, human metapneumovirus, and norovirus, in the communities of Lawrence and Salina. Experts say this data provides an early warning system for community health and highlights the need for preventive measures like vaccination.

Why it matters

Wastewater data offers a comprehensive view of viral circulation that can uncover hidden health trends missed by traditional case reporting. The findings in Kansas indicate potential community-wide outbreaks, raising concerns about the severity of the upcoming flu season and the spread of newer COVID variants.

The details

Wastewater samples from Lawrence and Salina have detected high levels of COVID-19, influenza A and B, RSV, human metapneumovirus, and norovirus. Experts say the data suggests the larger population in Lawrence may be contributing to higher concentrations of respiratory viruses. Nationwide, there has been an early peak in influenza B cases, with a significant portion of flu tests returning positive. Healthcare providers in the area are taking proactive measures, like requiring masks, due to a 'record surge in respiratory illnesses'. The wastewater data also reveals the dominance of a newer COVID strain, the XFG or Stratus variant, which is a cause for concern.

  • The wastewater data was collected in April 2026.
  • Flu season is currently underway, with an early peak in influenza B cases.

The players

Veronica White

A preparedness and epidemiology expert who explains how wastewater data provides a comprehensive picture of viral circulation in a community.

Dana Hawkinson

An infection control expert who emphasizes the importance of vaccination, especially given the low vaccine uptake across the state.

Steve Stites

The chief medical officer who highlights the safety and effectiveness of vaccines.

Watkins Health Center

A healthcare provider in the area that is requiring masks for all visitors and staff due to a 'record surge in respiratory illnesses'.

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What they’re saying

“Wastewater data paints a comprehensive picture of viral circulation. It captures the genetic material shed by everyone, providing an accurate snapshot of community health.”

— Veronica White, Preparedness and Epidemiology Expert

“The flu is still at a high level, and we've seen a large number of cases. Vaccination is a powerful tool to prevent severe illness and death.”

— Dana Hawkinson, Infection Control Expert

“Based on the data, we anticipate continued viral activity in both Lawrence and Salina. As flu season progresses, we expect to see elevated influenza activity reflected in the wastewater, especially as we approach the typical peak.”

— Veronica White, Preparedness and Epidemiology Expert

What’s next

Medical experts advise the usual preventive measures: handwashing, covering coughs, and avoiding large public spaces when sick. Hawkinson encourages flu vaccination, emphasizing its accessibility and effectiveness.

The takeaway

The wastewater data in Kansas provides an early warning system for community health, highlighting the need for proactive measures like vaccination and vigilance against the spread of respiratory viruses. These findings underscore the value of wastewater surveillance in uncovering hidden health trends and guiding public health responses.