The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has warned that COVID-19 infections are on the rise or likely to increase in all 50 states.
The center noted that while COVID-19-related emergency department visits remain very low, wastewater data reveals more accurate indicators of the virus's spread in communities, as it can detect signs of infection even in asymptomatic individuals.
Wastewater data shows that Hawaii and Mississippi are recording moderate levels of viral activity, while western and southern states, such as Alabama, Alaska, California, Florida, Georgia, Oregon, Nevada, Texas, and Washington, are experiencing low levels, while the rest of the states are classified as very low, with COVID-19 significantly outperforming influenza and respiratory syncytial virus in its spread.
An updated vaccine targeting the dominant XFG variant is expected to be available starting in the fall, as part of ongoing efforts to combat the virus and reduce the impact of recurring waves.
