578. Water, Water Everywhere — But You Have to Stop and Think

This podcast episode explores the history and development of wastewater surveillance, focusing on its use in tracking COVID-19 and other diseases. It discusses the challenges and potential of this method, highlighting its ability to detect viruses early and identify cryptic lineages. The episode also delves into ethical concerns about privacy and the need for responsible use of wastewater data. Additionally, it examines the importance of water infrastructure and its role in eliminating waterborne diseases, as well as the paradoxical improvements in black-white mortality gaps during the Jim Crow era due to the expansion of water and sanitation systems. Finally, it addresses the water crisis in the Southwest and the role of Saudi alfalfa farms in exacerbating the issue, highlighting the need for sustainable water management practices.