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Is COVID returning? Summer uptick of virus may have begun in California
Honolulu Star-Advertiser • • health
Key Points:
- COVID-19 cases are rising in California and several other U.S. states, marking a potential seasonal summer increase, though current levels remain low based on emergency room visits and test positivity rates.
- California health officials report increasing test positivity rates and wastewater virus concentrations, with notable rises in Los Angeles, Orange County, San Francisco, and Santa Clara County.
- Hospitalizations remain very low statewide, but officials expect a possible rise in the coming weeks and continue to recommend COVID-19 vaccinations for all individuals aged 6 months and older, especially high-risk groups.
- Globally, COVID activity is generally stable but increasing in parts of Asia, Latin America, and Europe, with Taiwan experiencing strain from concurrent COVID and flu cases expected to peak mid-August.
- Despite a significant decline in COVID-related deaths since 2020, the virus still poses risks, particularly for older adults, immunocompromised individuals, pregnant people, and young children, emphasizing the importance of vaccination and early treatment options like Paxlovid.
