Several states in the western United States are currently witnessing a significant rise in new Covid-19 infections, as indicated by the latest data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). An update published on Friday highlights that Covid-19 activity in wastewater has escalated to a “moderate” level nationwide, marking an increase from the “low” level recorded the previous week.
The states experiencing the highest levels of Covid-19 infections include Alaska, California, Colorado, Nevada, and Utah, all of which have been categorized as “high” risk areas. The CDC emphasizes that “wastewater monitoring” serves as a crucial tool in identifying viruses that spread within communities, often before clinical testing occurs or before individuals seek medical attention.
According to the CDC, increased levels of viral activity detected in wastewater can indicate a heightened risk of Covid-19 infection in the community. Wastewater tracking acts as an early detection method, enabling health officials to monitor potential surges effectively. The California Department of Public Health has reported that statewide infection numbers have now exceeded the highs recorded during the winter months.
As of Tuesday, the CDC estimates that Covid-19 infections are either growing or likely growing in 45 states, a rise from 40 states the previous week. Compounding concerns is the emergence of a new variant, known as XFG or “Stratus,” which is rapidly becoming the third-most prevalent strain in the US. Initially detected in South-East Asia in January, this variant saw minimal presence in the US until May, but by late June, it was responsible for approximately 14% of cases, according to CDC estimates.
During a CBS interview in July, physician Jon LaPook noted that the pattern of rising cases during summer months is not unusual. “We now know that there’s a winter spike and then there’s a summer spike,” LaPook explained. He further highlighted the positive trend of decreasing hospitalizations and deaths associated with Covid-19 each season. However, experts caution that it remains uncertain how substantial the developing late-summer wave may become. Although current case increases are slower than those seen in previous surges, varying immune responses due to past infections and vaccinations complicate predictions regarding the severity of potential illnesses.
The growing number of Covid-19 cases coincides with an announcement from the US Department of Health and Human Services that it will terminate 22 federal contracts for mRNA-based vaccines. This decision raises concerns about the safety and availability of a technology that has played a crucial role in combating the pandemic and saving millions of lives. The CDC has not yet responded to inquiries regarding these developments.
