Wastewater virus surveillance is coming back to Ottawa. Here’s how

A group of researchers and organizations will continue to use wastewater to monitor the health of Ottawa residents until next year.

In a statement from the University of Ottawa, Delatolla Research Group, CHEO, CHEO Research Institute and Ottawa Public Health, the organizations say the wastewater surveillance program will continue until September 2025.

“It has demonstrated to be a useful, near real-time and reliable method of public health surveillance and a leading indicator of community transmission,” the statement reads.

Originally started in 2020 to monitor COVID-19 transmission, the project expanded to detect influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and mpox in the nation’s capital. It allowed almost real-time data on how viruses spread in the community and where targeted public health intervention is needed.

The new agreement will be under Dr. Robert Delatolla, who will provide analysis and information on the project and provide insights to other organizations.

“Our research group is truly grateful for the overwhelming support we’ve received from the community over the past few months through emails, letters, and phone calls advocating for the continuation of our wastewater monitoring system,” Delatolla said in a press release. “We’ve gained invaluable insights into how this information is essential for community members facing health challenges, and we are thrilled to continue providing this vital service.”

This joint announcement comes after the province ceased wastewater surveillance programs across Ontario on July 31. Federal wastewater testing was expected to expand into the province in its place, but the move didn’t sit well with Ontario doctors and researchers.