COVID-19 Update: Why This Summer’s Surge Is Giving Us Déjà Vu and How to Stay Ahead

With COVID-19 Levels Rising Again, Here’s What You Need to Know to Keep Safe and Sane This Summer

Just when we thought we were done with all things COVID, the virus has decided it’s not ready to bow out just yet. Yes, folks, the summer of 2024 is bringing us a familiar—but still frustrating—rise in COVID-19 cases, and it’s happening across the U.S. like an uninvited guest who just won’t leave the party.

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Current viral activity levels of SARS-COV-2 in wastewater

Déjà Vu All Over Again: Why Are COVID-19 Levels Rising?

You’re not imagining things—COVID-19 is making headlines again, and not in a good way. According to recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a majority of U.S. states are reporting “very high” levels of COVID-19 in their wastewater. As of August 8, 27 states have hit this unwelcome milestone, up from just 7 states in mid-July.

So, what’s going on? Several new variants, including the ominously named KP.3, KP.3.1.1, and KP.2.3—also known as the FLiRT variants—are circulating and causing the current surge. These sneaky variants have a knack for evading immunity, which means that even if you’ve had your shots, you might not be as invincible as you thought.

Wastewater: The Crystal Ball of COVID-19

You might be wondering, “Why are we talking about wastewater?” Believe it or not, tracking COVID-19 in sewage is one of the most reliable ways to monitor the virus’s spread. As people go about their daily lives—showering, doing laundry, and, well, using the bathroom—tiny pieces of the virus are shed and end up in the sewage system. By testing these samples, scientists can get a sneak peek at how widespread the infection is, often before people even realize they’re sick.

Wastewater monitoring has become a crucial tool because it captures data that traditional testing might miss. With home tests and asymptomatic cases, many infections go unreported. But when the virus shows up in the water, you know it’s out there, and it’s time to take notice.

What Experts Are Saying: Is This Wave Worse Than Last Summer?

Experts are sounding the alarm, with some predicting that this summer’s COVID-19 wave could surpass last year’s in terms of infections. Dr. Ashish Jha, former White House COVID-19 response coordinator, recently told NBC News that “this is probably going to end up becoming the largest summer wave we’ve had.” While it might not reach the peaks of winter surges, it’s still a significant increase that has many on edge.

But before you start panic-buying toilet paper again, remember that we’ve been here before—and we’ve learned a lot along the way. Vaccines, boosters, and good old-fashioned common sense (yes, that means washing your hands and wearing a mask in crowded spaces) are still your best defenses.

Staying Ahead of the Curve: How to Protect Yourself

Here’s the good news: You’ve got tools in your arsenal to keep COVID-19 at bay. Stay up to date with your vaccines, including the latest booster shots designed to tackle these newer variants. Consider wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces, especially if you’re in one of those “very high” level states. And don’t forget the basics—handwashing, social distancing, and staying home if you’re feeling under the weather are still effective ways to reduce your risk.

Final Thoughts: Let’s Keep Our Cool This Summer

Yes, COVID-19 is still hanging around, but we’ve learned how to live with it without letting it rule our lives. With a bit of caution and a lot of common sense, we can enjoy the summer while staying safe. So, let’s keep our cool, stay informed, and continue to look out for each other—because we’ve come too far to let this virus win.

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