COVID-19 Activity Increases Across US, Mostly On West Coast: CDC


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Key Takeaway

COVID-19 cases are rising across the U.S., especially in western states like California. While the overall risk remains lower than past peaks, health officials urge caution as summer travel and new variants spread.

1. Where Are Cases Rising?

  • Hotspots: West Coast states (California, Alaska, Nevada) and parts of the South (Texas, Louisiana, Florida) are seeing higher activity.
  • National Trend: Wastewater testing (see below) shows a “moderate” increase in viral levels, but lab tests still label overall cases as “low.”

2. How Do We Track Cases?

Wastewater Monitoring:

  • Think of it like a “community health check.” Scientists test sewage to detect the virus before people show symptoms or get tested.
  • Why it matters: Rising virus levels in wastewater mean infections are likely spreading.

Lab Tests & Hospital Data:

  • Lab-confirmed cases are still labeled “low,” but emergency room visits for COVID-19 are up across all age groups.

3. New Variants Spreading

The CDC is tracking two variants:

  • NB.1.8.1 and XFG: Both are related to Omicron. The World Health Organization (WHO) says they’re “under watch” but not yet considered high-risk.
  • China’s Situation: Rising cases are reported there too, but accurate data is hard to get due to government secrecy.

4. Other Respiratory Illnesses

  • Flu and RSV (a common cold-like virus) remain at very low levels nationwide. COVID-19 is currently the main concern.

5. Vaccine Policy Changes

Recent updates under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.:

  • 🚫 No more COVID-19 vaccine advice for:
    • Pregnant women.
    • Healthy children (unless a doctor recommends it).
  • 💉 Mercury removed from flu vaccines (a preservative some people worry about).

What Should You Do?

  • Stay informed: Cases are rising, but panic isn’t needed.
  • Consider precautions in high-risk areas (masking, testing if sick).
  • Check with your doctor about vaccines or boosters if you’re vulnerable.

Why This Matters: While COVID-19 isn’t as severe as in 2020-2021, it’s still evolving. Simple steps can help protect you and others during upticks.

(Sources: CDC, WHO, The Epoch Times)

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