A highly contagious respiratory virus, often associated with winter months, is now seeing significant increases across all 50 United States this summer. Infections for the illness, which experts note has become more prevalent during warmer weather, are reportedly growing or likely growing nationwide.
This summer's wave, while not yet as severe as the one experienced last year, has drawn the attention of health officials. Nationwide wastewater viral activity levels were considered "very low" as of mid-August, as were emergency department visits related to the disease. However, nearly 4% of COVID tests came back positive in the week prior to August 14, compared to over 9% during the same week a year ago.
Last summer's surge was fueled by the "Stratus" variant, which caused lingering symptoms for many. The "cicada" variant, known for its previous long dormancy and subsequent resurgence, is also contributing to the current uptick.
As of August 17, at least 15 states and territories were experiencing active outbreaks, according to the Pandemic Mitigation Collaborative's data tracker. Experts anticipate transmission may peak about a week into September, particularly in the South and West regions where rates are climbing sharply.
The rise in cases coincides with the upcoming fall vaccine season, which includes updated guidance on who should receive a COVID-19 shot. The Trump administration's CDC has shifted from a universal recommendation for individuals 6 months and older to a shared clinical decision-making model, largely leaving the decision to individuals and their healthcare providers. However, major medical groups and health organizations continue to recommend COVID vaccines for broader populations, emphasizing them as a key protective measure.
An updated COVID-19 vaccine, designed to target the XFG variant, is expected to be available in early fall. Despite recommendations, fewer than 20% of U.S. adults received the most recent COVID shot. While COVID-19 is not the same public health crisis it was in its early stages, infections can still lead to severe illness or death, and the risk of long COVID persists.
In the previous year, the CDC reported 20,685 deaths attributed to COVID-19 on death certificates. Individuals most vulnerable to severe outcomes include older adults, those with compromised immune systems, pregnant women, and young children.