Summer COVID-19 Surge Persists as Wastewater Levels Increase, CDC Reports

The ongoing summer surge of COVID-19 continues to impact the United States, with recent federal data indicating a rise in virus activity across many regions. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), wastewater surveillance data shows that COVID-19 levels have increased to a "moderate" level nationwide, up from "low" the previous week. Notably, the Western U.S. states such as Alaska, California, Colorado, Nevada, and Utah are experiencing the highest viral activity.

Wastewater monitoring serves as an early warning system, detecting the spread of the virus within communities even before individuals seek medical attention. It can also identify infections in asymptomatic cases, providing crucial insight into current trends. The CDC pointed out that increased wastewater viral levels could signal a higher potential for virus transmission.

Further evidence of the rise is seen in the growing number of states experiencing COVID-19 increases; currently, 45 states show signs of rising cases, an increase from 40 states last week. Emergency room visits for COVID-19 remain relatively low but have shown an uptick compared to prior weeks. CDC experts and health officials note that seasonal spikes are becoming a regular pattern, with both winter and summer surges occurring annually.

Dr. Jon LaPook, CBS News' chief medical correspondent, emphasized that despite a downward trend in death and hospitalization rates over the seasons, the current rise should not be ignored. Vulnerable populations, including older adults, children, and immunocompromised individuals, remain at risk of severe illness.

Health authorities continue to recommend vigilance and precaution, especially for at-risk groups, as the virus continues to circulate within communities. Additional information on COVID-19 can be found through the World Health Organization.