Flu Wastewater Levels Rose in Los Angeles

As influenza activity surges, USC offers vaccination options to students and employees to protect campus health.

Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Allergies

Gouache-painted illustration of a medical needle and vial, evoking the focus on preventative health measures. — Influenza wastewater levels in Los Angeles have reached levels comparable to last year, leading USC Health to encourage early seasonal vaccinations for all students and staff. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you plan to get a flu vaccination this season to avoid missing class or work?

Influenza wastewater levels in Los Angeles have climbed to match those seen last December, prompting an early focus on preventative care. USC Student Health is now offering flu vaccinations to students and employees to mitigate risks before the expected peak of the flu season.

Why it matters

High population density in campus living and working spaces significantly increases transmission risk, making vaccination a key strategy for avoiding illness during the busy academic finals period. Staying ahead of the surge helps minimize disruption to academic and work schedules.

Surveillance data indicates that local influenza wastewater levels have surged to match benchmarks from last December. These findings underscore the active nature of current transmission patterns in Los Angeles as the community approaches the colder months.

The players

USC Student Health

The primary healthcare provider for university students that manages wellness initiatives and campus infection prevention.

Engemann Student Health Center

A campus facility providing walk-in medical services and preventative care for the USC community.

Eric Cohen Student Health Center

A campus health location offering vaccinations and student-focused medical services.

The details

The flu vaccines distributed by USC Student Health contain an inactivated virus, which trains the immune system to recognize and fight the infection without causing the illness itself. Vaccinations are available as walk-ins at the Engemann Student Health Center and the Eric Cohen Student Health Center, as well as during weekly events. Employees may access these vaccines through USC Health Plans at local pharmacies, while students on specific insurance plans may qualify for zero out-of-pocket costs.

Wastewater levels have reached markers consistent with last December.
USC Student Health provides vaccination services every Wednesday.
The Trojan Farmers Market vaccination event concludes on Nov. 4.
Flu outbreaks are expected to peak throughout December and January.

Health Landscape

This report follows the tracking patterns established by the CDC National Wastewater Surveillance System to monitor community viral loads. Tracking wastewater has become a standard approach to identifying early spikes in respiratory illness before clinical diagnostic testing captures the full scope.

Students should check if they are eligible for no-cost vaccinations through their SHIP/Aetna plans or the $20 non-SHIP rate. If you are a member of the campus community, it is worth discussing with your doctor whether current local transmission trends warrant prioritizing your flu shot now.

The takeaway

Early surveillance data suggests a faster-than-usual rise in local influenza activity. Residents and students should prioritize preventative measures like hand hygiene and consider discussing the flu vaccine with a primary care provider to ensure coverage before the year-end peak.