COVID-19 has not taken a break this summer. While federal data suggests that the current increases in cases are below earlier peaks, anecdotal evidence from family, friends, and coworkers suggests that many people know someone who is currently sick with COVID-19. Experts agree that the current surveillance systems may not capture the full extent of the virus’s spread. There is likely more transmission happening than what the data shows. The University of Washington’s Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, which provided regular estimates and projections for COVID-19 cases, paused their modeling due to changes in data reporting. The rise of at-home rapid tests and decreasing public interest in testing has made it difficult to accurately determine current case counts nationwide. Hospitalization metrics were initially used as a substitute to gauge transmission, but testing practices in hospitals have changed, making it difficult to compare data over time. Wastewater surveillance offers a consistent approach to monitoring the virus, but it is challenging to interpret the data and translate it into case counts. Despite the uncertainty around exact numbers, the available data clearly shows an upward trend in cases, warranting concern. Weekly hospital admissions have nearly doubled in the past month, and test positivity rates have tripled. While there are hopeful signs, such as flattening wastewater levels and low hospitalization rates, it is crucial to recognize that COVID-19 is not the same as the flu and requires different precautions. Following public health guidelines, such as wearing masks and getting vaccinated, is essential as we enter the respiratory virus season. Now is the time to practice good respiratory etiquette and maintain awareness of our individual health status and the people around us.
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