Knowledge to Action Series Case Example British Columbia Centre for Disease Control

Publication Summary

As part of the NCCID and CWN Knowledge to Action Series, the BCCDC case example highlights how British Columbia integrated wastewater-based surveillance (WBS) into its public health system to support pandemic response and beyond. The BCCDC collaborated with municipal wastewater utilities and regional health authorities to establish a robust, multi-site WBS network capable of monitoring SARS-CoV-2 and other emerging pathogens. This case showcases effective data integration, real-time reporting, and cross-sector collaboration, offering a practical model for translating environmental signals into timely public health action. Lessons from BC emphasize the importance of building trust, data transparency, and adaptability in scaling WBS across diverse communities.