COVID-19 is making a comeback in parts of the United States, with 25 states now reporting an increase in cases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The rise is most noticeable in the South, Southeast, and along the West Coast.
Although overall COVID-19 activity nationwide is still considered “low,” CDC wastewater data shows it has grown from “very low” levels the previous week. Health officials say this signals the beginning of a possible summer surge.
The biggest spikes in emergency room visits are happening in the Pacific Northwest and Southeast. In those areas, current COVID-related visits are now at their highest since February or March, according to a CBS News report.
Experts had been watching closely for a potential summer wave. A recent CDC analysis confirms a pattern of COVID-19 cases peaking twice a year — once in the summer (July to September) and again in winter (December to February). These trends may continue as long as the virus keeps evolving.
“Our analysis revealed biannual COVID-19 peaks in late summer and winter,” CDC scientists wrote. This ongoing pattern is driven by frequent changes in a part of the virus’s spike protein known as the S1 region, which helps the virus attach to human cells.
CDC Also Tracking Spread of Parvovirus B19
In addition to rising COVID-19 cases, the CDC is alerting the public about another virus — parvovirus B19 — which is spreading more than usual this summer.
Most people with parvovirus B19 experience only mild symptoms, such as fever, muscle aches, or a rash. However, pregnant women are at greater risk for complications and should take extra precautions. The CDC advises expectant mothers to wear masks in crowded or high-risk areas.
Chicago health officials report a significant increase in emergency room visits linked to parvovirus B19. Several recent weeks have recorded the highest rates of B19-related ER visits since tracking began in 2015.
It’s important to note that parvovirus B19 is not the same as the parvovirus that infects dogs.
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