CDC Warns of Sharp Increase in Covid-19 Hospitalizations in the US
In a recent announcement, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has expressed concerns about a significant rise in Covid-19 hospitalizations across the United States. This spike, reportedly the sharpest since December 2022, has led to growing worries of a potential late summer wave.
According to the CDC, over 7,100 Covid-19 patients were admitted to hospitals in the week of July 15, a significant increase from the prior week’s count of 6,444. The surge in hospitalizations has been particularly noticeable in the Southeast region of the country.
Dr. Brendan Jackson, the CDC’s Covid incident manager, has stated that after months of encouraging declines, hospitalizations and early indicators of Covid-19 activity have started to show an upward trend once again. Dr. Jackson’s comments highlight the need for continued vigilance and adherence to preventive measures.
In addition to the rise in hospitalizations, emergency room visits related to Covid-19 have also seen an increase. As of July 21, 0.73% of emergency room visits were due to Covid-19, compared to 0.49% recorded just a month prior.
While concerns about emerging mutagenic subvariants in Asia persist, experts clarify that these recent upticks in hospitalizations and early indicators do not necessarily indicate a major surge for most people in the US. Kathleen Conley, a spokesperson for the CDC, stressed that Covid rates in the country are still near-historic lows, and overall infection-related deaths are declining.
Dr. Marc Siegel, a professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center, believes that a summer surge is currently underway but views it as a separate entity from the previous major surges. Dr. Siegel recommends considering the new XBB subvariant booster in the fall, especially for high-risk groups who have not recently been infected or vaccinated.
Experts liken these recent increases in hospitalizations and early Covid-19 activity to embers of a fire that has not yet been fully extinguished. As the situation continues to evolve, it is vital for individuals to remain cautious, follow public health guidelines, and take necessary steps to protect themselves and others from the virus.
As news of this increase in Covid-19 hospitalizations spreads, Heartland Magazine will remain dedicated to providing the latest updates and information to keep our readers informed and prepared during these challenging times. Stay safe and stay informed.
“Social media scholar. Reader. Zombieaholic. Hardcore music maven. Web fanatic. Coffee practitioner. Explorer.”