Covid-19 activity National Uptick, is rising across the United States, with the western region showing the highest concentrations, according to the latest Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data released Friday according to US Records. Nationwide wastewater surveillance indicates a shift from “low” to “moderate” activity over the past week, with multiple western states now categorized as “high.” Public health officials say the trend reflects both the spread of a new variant and shifts in national vaccine policy.
Western States Lead in Case Growth National Uptick
The CDC reports that Alaska, California, Colorado, Nevada, and Utah are experiencing the most pronounced increases, based on wastewater viral load readings. Wastewater monitoring detects virus spread in communities before people seek medical care, offering early warning of potential surges.
California’s own public health data shows Covid-19 levels have already exceeded those seen in the winter, underscoring the strength of this late-summer wave. As of Tuesday, infections are growing or likely growing in 45 states, up from 40 last week, suggesting that the rise is not limited to the West.
New Variant “Stratus” Gains Traction
The national uptick comes as the XFG variant, informally called “Stratus,” gains ground. First detected in Southeast Asia in January, the variant remained scarce in the US until May but by late June accounted for up to 14% of new cases, making it the third most common strain this summer.
Experts believe seasonal patterns are now emerging, with both winter and summer spikes becoming typical. “Every year, the number of deaths and hospitalizations is gradually going down each season. That’s the good news,” Dr. Jon LaPook, CBS News’ chief medical correspondent, said in July. However, the unpredictability of variant behavior, coupled with diverse immunity levels from previous infections and vaccinations, makes it difficult to forecast the severity of the current wave.
Vaccine Policy Shift Sparks Concerns
The rise in infections coincides with a major vaccine policy shift. On Tuesday, the US Department of Health and Human Services announced it would terminate 22 federal contracts for mRNA-based Covid-19 vaccines. The decision has raised questions about future supply and access to a technology credited with preventing millions of deaths during the pandemic.
Health experts warn that reduced availability of updated vaccines could hinder efforts to contain potential surges, particularly if the XFG variant continues to spread. While case growth is slower than in past waves, any disruption to vaccination campaigns could leave vulnerable populations at higher risk.
Outlook Remains Uncertain
The CDC has not issued projections for the size or duration of the developing wave. Past summer spikes have been less severe than winter surges, but experts caution against assuming the trend will hold. Wastewater data, often a leading indicator, suggests that western states could face sharper increases in the coming weeks.
Public health officials recommend monitoring local data, maintaining up-to-date vaccinations, and practicing preventive measures when cases rise. While Covid-19’s overall health impact is declining, the current surge serves as a reminder that the virus continues to evolve—and that vigilance remains necessary.
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