Climate change and the hidden viral threat in our waters

When climate change comes to mind, we often think of extreme weather—scorching heatwaves, relentless storms, and catastrophic floods. But have you ever considered how these shifts might heighten your risk of viral exposure?

With severe downpours and prolonged heat becoming routine, the likelihood of encountering sewage-related viruses in rivers, lakes, and oceans is increasing. Intense rainfall can overwhelm urban sewage systems, leading to untreated waste being flushed into natural water bodies.

Recent research reveals that sewage-borne viruses can survive for days under specific conditions, raising significant health concerns for those exposed.

Sewage: A hidden viral reservoir

Raw sewage, a mix of human waste, decayed cells, food remnants, pharmaceuticals, and microbes, harbors countless viruses. While many are harmless, pathogens like norovirus and enterovirus are shed in enormous quantities by infected individuals—even after symptoms subside.

Although UK wastewater treatment removes over 99% of viruses, residual contamination still seeps into the environment daily. However, the real danger lies in untreated sewage spills.

Extreme weather, heightened risks

With climate models forecasting heavier rains and sweltering heatwaves, scientists must grasp how these factors affect viral survival. Studies confirm that enteric viruses linger for days in seawater, persisting longer in cooler conditions and vanishing faster under sunlight.

Minimizing exposure

To cut infection risks, experts recommend avoiding sewage-polluted waters for 2.5 days post-cloudy weather and 24 hours after sunshine. As climate change intensifies, urgent improvements in global wastewater treatment are essential.

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