COVID-19 Cases Rising in the U.S.

July 14 — COVID-19 cases are on the rise again across the United States, particularly in southern and western regions. According to estimates from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 25 states are experiencing an increase in cases as a potential summer wave begins.

While national activity remains labeled as “low,” based on CDC wastewater data, this level has increased from “very low” in the previous week.

Emergency room visits for COVID-19 have surged in the Pacific Northwest and Southeast, with rates now at their highest since February and March. Health experts have been anticipating a possible spike this summer due to the emergence of new virus variants.

A recent CDC analysis suggests that COVID-19 tends to follow a biannual pattern, peaking both in the summer (from July to September) and in winter (from December to February). “Our analysis revealed biannual COVID-19 peaks in late summer and winter, a pattern that is expected to persist as long as the rapid evolution of SARS-CoV-2 and cyclical S1 diversity continues,” CDC scientists noted.

The term S1 diversity refers to ongoing variations in a crucial part of the virus’s spike protein, specifically the S1 region that aids the virus in binding to human cells.

The CDC has also issued a warning about another virus, Parvovirus B19, which is currently circulating more widely. Most individuals who contract this virus experience mild symptoms, but some may develop flu-like symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, and a rash. Pregnant women are at a higher risk for complications and are advised to take precautions, such as wearing masks in crowded places.

In Chicago, health authorities have reported an increase in emergency room visits related to Parvovirus B19. “Several of the most recent weeks saw the highest percentage of B19-associated ED visits compared to the same week in all years since 2015,” officials stated.

It is important to note that Parvovirus B19 is distinct from the parvovirus that affects dogs and other canines.

For more information on Parvovirus B19, the CDC provides additional resources.