COVID-19 Cases Resurface: Virus Still Lingers
Posted on August 5, 2022
Renowned physician Dr. Bob Wachter, a strong advocate for COVID-19 prevention measures, recently contracted the virus himself. Despite being cautious, he fell ill and required hospitalization. Wachter shared his story as a reminder that COVID-19 is still a threat, even as society strives to return to normalcy. This recent case is part of a growing trend of COVID-19 resurging in various parts of the United States.
Increasing Infections in the US
While recent infections may not be causing widespread alarm, they serve as a reminder that the virus has not disappeared. Instances like students testing positive for COVID-19 at a solar car race and members of the Israeli delegation contracting the virus during a visit to the White House highlight the ongoing presence of COVID-19. Furthermore, wastewater analysis in areas such as San Francisco and Los Angeles indicates rising levels of the virus.
“There’s no doubt compared to our nadirs, or the stability that we’ve enjoyed, that there’s a slight increase in test positivity,” warns Dr. Mark Ghaly, California’s health secretary.
While the situation is not as dire as in previous waves, experts attribute the recent uptick to factors such as people spending more time indoors due to extremely hot weather. In order to prevent further spread, it is recommended to continue practicing safety measures like wearing masks, especially in crowded settings. Additionally, maintaining up-to-date vaccinations plays a crucial role in protection against COVID-19.
Slight Rise in Hospitalizations
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), hospitalizations due to COVID-19 have increased by 10% in the week of July 15 compared to the previous week. While the risk of infection remains relatively low, it is steadily rising. Experts emphasize the importance of remaining vigilant and aware of the ongoing threat.
To address the evolving nature of the virus, it is crucial to receive appropriate booster shots. The bivalent booster introduced last fall targets strains closely related to Omicron, which is driving the current spike in infections. The CDC states that only 17% of the American population has received this booster, highlighting the need for more widespread vaccination.
Accepting COVID-19 as Part of Life
While the pandemic has significantly receded, with fewer hospitalizations and deaths compared to previous waves, the virus still persists. The majority of Americans possess some level of immunity through vaccination or prior infections. However, it is crucial for those at high risk to stay up to date on booster shots and be familiar with treatment options should they contract the virus. COVID-19 may have become a part of daily life, but it is important to remember that the virus has not vanished completely.
