Early-Season Detection of Influenza A(H3N2) Subclade K in Wastewater, Colorado, USA, 2025-2026

We assessed the value of wastewater sequencing for monitoring influenza circulation in Colorado, USA, focusing on the emergence of influenza A(H3N2) subclade K. We detected subclade K in wastewater 31 days before clinical detection. Our results demonstrated that wastewater sequencing can provide real-time situational awareness for public health officials.