The Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR) has changed its name to the New Zealand Institute for Public Health and Forensic Science (PHF Science) as of 1 July 2025. The website address is now www.phfscience.nz. Visitors are automatically redirected to the new address. Please check and update any links and bookmarks.

Wastewater Surveillance Report - Monthly Report March 2024

Please note: As of 1 July 2025, the New Zealand Institute for Public Health and Forensic Science (PHF Science) is the new name for the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR). Research and reports published prior to this date may reference the organisation’s former name.

Summary

In March 2024, 270 samples were collected across Aotearoa. SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected in 269 (99%) samples from 45 sites (100%). Following a sustained increase in SARS-CoV-2 RNA quantities in wastewater between August and December 2023, the latest data shows a brief upward trend in February 2024, followed by a period of slight to moderate decline. The estimated national percentage of the JN.1 family (includes JN.1, JN.1.4 and XDK) remained steady at a high level (up to 98%) in March 2024.

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