In the United States, researchers have found significant value in wastewater monitoring for tracking disease outbreaks, particularly measles. Two studies published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showcased the effectiveness of this method. In Colorado, officials began testing wastewater for measles in May 2023, coinciding with confirmed outbreaks in neighboring states. Remarkably, wastewater samples tested positive for measles about ten weeks before any human cases were identified. The first human measles case was confirmed on July 11, and the outbreak continued until mid-September, but the wastewater analysis could have signaled the outbreak much earlier. Similarly, Oregon researchers noted that their monitoring system could have identified an outbreak more than two months prior to the first confirmed case, highlighting the method's potential to prevent a wider spread of infections. Wastewater monitoring has proven beneficial not only for measles but also for diseases like COVID-19 and polio. Despite its usefulness, the national wastewater surveillance system is now under threat as proposed budget cuts could drastically reduce its funding, raising concerns about the sustainability of such critical public health initiatives. Those involved in the surveillance programs, including Peggy Honein from the CDC, expressed worry that reduced funding would necessitate prioritization, potentially limiting the system's effectiveness and reach. The Colorado program, where wastewater testing began proactively, has emphasized the importance of federal funding in maintaining these surveillance efforts across various states, especially as some local programs rely entirely on taxpayer dollars. Nonetheless, the advancements made in public health surveillance through wastewater analysis represent a crucial leap forward in disease detection and response measures. By utilizing data from over 1,300 wastewater treatment sites, the CDC aims to protect public health while addressing ongoing challenges in funding and resource allocation for disease monitoring.