BLOOMINGTON — Local health officials have issued a high-alert “weather” report for pathogens following the latest results from wastewater surveillance. Data released by WastewaterSCAN for the week ending February 10, 2026, indicates that several major viruses are currently circulating at high levels within the Monroe County sewershed.
The report serves as a “forecast” for community illness, allowing residents to take proactive measures before they or their families fall ill.
Wastewater testing is a leading indicator of public health, often detecting spikes in illness before they are reflected in doctor’s office visits or hospitalizations. The current report shows:
- SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19): Levels are currently high.
- Influenza: Levels remain high as the community moves through the peak of the winter flu season.
- RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus): Levels are high, posing a particular risk to infants and older adults.
- Norovirus: Known commonly as the “stomach flu,” these levels are also high.
For those concerned about avian influenza (H5N1) following recent national headlines, levels remain below detectable limits in our local sewershed.
To help “lower the temperature” on these viral levels, the Monroe County Health Department recommends the following safety protocols:
- Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently with soap and warm water.
- Stay Home: If you feel unwell or test positive for COVID-19, stay home to prevent spreading illness to coworkers and students.
- Masking: Wear a well-fitting mask (such as an N95 or KN95) in crowded indoor spaces.
- Vaccination: It is not too late to receive your updated 2025-2026 flu and COVID-19 vaccinations.
The Health Department is continuing to provide support for local families to manage the current surge:
Free At-Home COVID Tests are available for pickup at the Monroe County Health Building, located at 119 W. 7th St. in Bloomington.
For real-time data and national comparisons, residents can visit the interactive dashboard at data.wastewaterscan.org.
