Life Changing Weekend 02-01-26 RSV and Waste Water Scanning

Sunday, February 1, 2026

Respiratory Syncytial (SYN-SISIAL) Virus, or RSV, is a common, contagious, and potentially serious respiratory virus that affects the lungs and breathing passages.  Each year, approximately 177,000 adults 65 years and older are hospitalized in the US due to RSV and an estimated 14,000 of those cases result in death.  To discuss this further, we’re joined by Dr. Leonard Friedland, pediatrician and research scientist, Vice President and Director of Scientific Affairs and Public Health with GSK - North America and also Carole, a National Senior Games Athlete who contracted and overcame RSV.

PLUS, wastewater scanning data during the fall and winter respiratory virus season can curb the spread of illnesses nationwide. For communities and local health officials, the ability to tell if illness levels are rising, falling, or remaining the same can help them make important health decisions.  To discuss this, we're joined by AMANDA BIDWELL, SCIENTIFIC PROGRAM MANAGER FOR WASTEWATERSCAN AT STANFORD UNIVERSITY. 

Related Episodes