Lawrence, Kansas, is experiencing a surge in viral diseases, including COVID-19, the flu, and norovirus, as the community grapples with peak flu season. Wastewater data reveals high concentrations of these viruses, with COVID-19, influenza A and B, RSV, human metapneumovirus, and norovirus detected in Lawrence's wastewater over the last three weeks. While this data indicates the spread of illnesses within the community, it doesn't directly correlate to exact case numbers. Doctors attribute this to the normal occurrence of high concentrations of respiratory illnesses during flu season.
Veronica White, preparedness and epidemiology coordinator for Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health, explains that wastewater data provides a reliable picture of viral circulation, capturing genetic material shed by everyone using the sewer system. Lawrence's larger population may contribute to the higher concentrations of respiratory viruses. Interestingly, Lawrence is also witnessing an early peak in influenza B compared to the rest of the country, with positive flu tests spiking in the last week of 2025, reaching 32% positivity rate.
Some healthcare providers, like Watkins Health Center at the University of Kansas, are implementing mask mandates for all visitors, patients, and staff due to a record surge in respiratory illnesses. However, White clarifies that the early rise in the flu doesn't indicate a more dangerous season but rather earlier virus circulation than usual. Early identification through wastewater data allows for preventive measures such as vaccination, symptom monitoring, and staying home when sick.
The wastewater data also highlights a newer strain of COVID, known as the XFG or Stratus variant, accounting for 82.5% of positive COVID samples and increasing by 25% in the last month. This variant is also on the rise nationally. Dana Hawkinson, medical director for Infection Control and Prevention at the University of Kansas Health System, emphasizes the importance of flu vaccination, noting that large populations across the state have yet to receive it. Despite a significant number of people falling ill, the flu remains at a high level.
Steve Stites, chief medical officer at the University of Kansas Health System, reassures the public that vaccines are incredibly safe and effective. Hawkinson distinguishes flu symptoms from stomach bug symptoms, emphasizing the importance of proper identification during flu season. Wastewater data also indicates medium concentrations of the same illnesses in Salina, except for influenza A, which is considered high.
Medical experts advise continued adherence to preventive measures such as hand washing, covering coughs, and avoiding large public spaces when sick. Hawkinson encourages flu vaccination, emphasizing its effectiveness in protecting individuals from severe illness and death. As flu season progresses, elevated influenza activity is expected in both Lawrence and Salina, according to White, with the season's typical peak approaching.
