COVID-19 is surging in New York’s wastewater, with levels among the highest in the country, according to the CDC. For the week ending Sept. 25, 14 counties—including Bronx, Queens, Erie, and Monroe—reported “very high” viral loads. That puts New York well above the national average of “moderate” activity. The dominant strain, XFG “Stratus,” now makes up 85% of cases. While hospital visits remain steady, health officials urge caution as symptoms remain widespread and testing access varies by county.