government
Sewage samples could help track pathogens, surveil illness during World Cup
By Ismael M. Belkoura at Fort Worth Report
· June 7, 2026
· 3 min read
As thousands of travelers descend upon North Texas for the FIFA World Cup, regional public health officials are ramping up wastewater testing. The process, which includes testing sewage samples from designated spots for certain diseases, viruses and bacterial infections, is one of several ways regio
Key takeaway Diseases and viruses routinely screened include the flu, RSV, COVID-19, measles, monkeypox and norovirus, Jones said.
Why this matters in The Fort Worth
The increased wastewater testing in North Texas, particularly in Tarrant County, takes on added significance given the region's role in hosting the FIFA World Cup. With thousands of international travelers converging on the area, the potential for disease transmission is heightened, making it crucial for public health officials to stay ahead of any emerging outbreaks. The fact that six locations, including two in Arlington, will undergo regular wastewater testing is a testament to the proactive approach being taken by local health agencies. As the tournament unfolds, with nine matches scheduled at AT&T Stadium, the ability to track pathogens and surveil illness in real-time will be vital in protecting both visitors and residents. The collaboration between Tarrant County Public Health and the Texas Department of State Health Services demonstrates a coordinated effort to safeguard the community, and the use of wastewater testing as a public health tool will undoubtedly play a key role in this endeavor.
About this story
Original reporting by Fort Worth Report . The Fort Worth surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
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Category: government ·
Published: June 7, 2026 ·
Source: Fort Worth Report ·
Reading time: 3 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? As thousands of travelers descend upon North Texas for the FIFA World Cup, regional public health officials are ramping up wastewater testing. The process, which includes testing sewage samples from designated spots for certain diseases, viruses and bacterial infections, is one of several ways regio
When was this published? This article was first published on June 7, 2026 by Fort Worth Report and curated for The Fort Worth readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Ismael M. Belkoura at Fort Worth Report. To learn more about how The Fort Worth selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more government coverage from The Fort Worth, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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