Pasteur Network Meeting in Lille: Wastewater Surveillance for Epidemic Prevention

On June 24 and 25, 2025, more than 50 experts gathered at the Institut Pasteur de Lille for a Pasteur Network (PN) meeting dedicated to wastewater surveillance. This event illustrates the PN’s commitment to bringing together stakeholders from diverse backgrounds around public health challenges. It brought together PN members from five continents, as well as partners such as the Gates Foundation, Wellcome Connecting Science, HERA, AFD, and the Fondation Mérieux.

Routine Surveillance and Outbreak Detection: Two Complementary Approaches
The discussions highlighted the importance of distinguishing between regular wastewater surveillance and the analysis of wastewater during an epidemic. Routine surveillance aims to detect anomalies in the circulation of pathogens within the population, thus serving as an early warning system. In contrast, wastewater analysis during an epidemic is generally implemented over a shorter period and with a more targeted objective: it enables the identification of the source of the outbreak and the monitoring of the evolution of a specific pathogen. While these two approaches differ in their purpose and timing, both are part of a comprehensive strategy to strengthen health surveillance systems.

Reducing Inequalities Between Countries and Strengthening Cooperation
Participants also discussed the disparities in resources between low-income and high-income countries. To bridge these gaps, speakers advocated for tailored strategies, strengthening local capacities, and sharing expertise. The importance of international cooperation, particularly for skills transfer and training initiatives, was widely discussed among the various members.

An Integrated Approach for New Health Challenges
Expanding surveillance to non-viral targets, such as parasites, bacteria, or markers associated with antimicrobial resistance (AMR), signals a shift toward an integrated approach to human and environmental health, in line with One Health principles. A panel of donors also addressed issues of sustainable financing, project longevity, and innovation.

Regional Workshops and Pan-African Survey
Regional workshops helped identify needs and existing resources. An unprecedented Pan-African survey was presented, providing valuable insights for adapting and evolving wastewater and environmental surveillance strategies in different contexts, as well as their funding by public health policies.

Key Recommendations

• Strengthening local capacities: training, sharing methods, pooling resources
• Developing intersectoral and international collaborations
• Adapting strategies to regional contexts to ensure effective implementation
• Increasing long-term funding for specific public health issues, from both donors and national authorities

“This meeting reaffirmed the importance of wastewater surveillance, not only as a scientific tool but also as a lever for equity, preparedness, and strengthening public health systems—especially when adapted to local realities and supported by long-term collaboration,” said Rebecca Grais, Executive Director of the Pasteur Network.