Post by Sciensano

💧 Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) has become an important tool for monitoring public health and supporting evidence-based decision-making. In Belgium, Sciensano coordinates the national wastewater surveillance programme in close collaboration with regional wastewater agencies and operators, as well as academic and regional partners. This multidisciplinary network enables the monitoring of a wide range of health-related indicators through wastewater analysis. In 2025, national surveillance activities covered SARS-CoV-2, influenza, RSV, poliovirus and illicit drug consumption. In parallel, several research projects explored additional public health challenges, including climate-linked pathogens, measles, hepatitis, acute gastroenteritis viruses and illicit drugs. 🔬 Beyond surveillance activities, Sciensano contributed to 7 scientific reports and 7 peer-reviewed publications, while sharing expertise through national and international scientific events. 🤝 At the European level, Sciensano continued its active involvement in the EU-WISH Joint Action and the GLOWACON project, contributing to the development of wastewater-based surveillance across Europe. By providing timely population-level insights, wastewater surveillance strengthens preparedness, supports public health policies and demonstrates the value of a One Health approach that connects human health, the environment and scientific innovation. 👉 Discover more about our wastewater surveillance activities in the 2025 annual report: https://lnkd.in/etpf8QpG 👉 More info on the wastewater surveillance: https://lnkd.in/eGuqQjNS 🤝 Aquafin, Hydria, VIVAQUA, SPGE, @AIDE, @IDEA, IDELUX, in BW, INASEP, IGRETEC, IPALLE Intercommunale de gestion de l'environnement, AQUIRIS, Veolia, Brussels Airport, Institut Scientifique de Service Public - ISSeP, Universiteit Gent, Universiteit Antwerpen, Université de Namur & KU Leuven.