Toward the end of summer and the beginning of the school year, COVID-19 cases surged nationwide, leaving many experiencing symptoms like fatigue, congestion, headaches, and sore throats.
This trend fits the typical COVID pattern, but what’s happening currently?
“COVID peaks in the summer, dips a bit, and then tends to spike again around Thanksgiving and Christmas when people gather,” remarked Dr. Jill Foster, a professor at the University of Minnesota Medical School.
Right now, we’re experiencing a lull in COVID-19 cases, which might feel like a relief for those worried about catching the virus. However, this doesn’t mean COVID is completely gone.
Suruchi Sood, an assistant professor at Johns Hopkins University, noted some delays in COVID tracking data, partly due to government shutdowns. Yet, she observed in her practice that, “thankfully, we aren’t seeing an increase in COVID cases right now.”
While the accuracy of COVID tracking has diminished due to less testing and changes in funding, physician observations suggest we are past the peak of late summer or early fall.
It’s uncertain if there will be another peak this year, but Foster speculates, “It will likely rise again as people begin to gather indoors and are in closer contact.”
Though COVID-19 numbers are low, there’s another illness on the rise.
It might come as a shock that COVID-19 cases are decreasing, especially for those battling congestion and sore throats this week.
“Our data from Northeast Ohio shows that SARS-CoV-2 activity has declined from its summer peak,” Dr. Steven Gordon from the Cleveland Clinic stated.
The COVID positivity rate at the Cleveland Clinic was 5% last week, he added.
“In contrast, our rhinovirus cases, which cause common colds, are rising, with a positivity rate of 20%,” Gordon said.
While his reports are specific to Northeast Ohio, they align with CDC data indicating an increase in rhinovirus and enterovirus cases as of late September.
There are ways to maintain your health this fall.
As we approach the virus season, it’s crucial to consider how to stay healthy in the coming months, said Gordon.
“Prevention is always better than treatment,” he emphasized. The flu shot is recommended for anyone over six months old, and it’s similar for COVID protection.
Given the availability of vaccines for both COVID and the flu, now is a great time to get vaccinated, Sood suggested.
Studies indicate that COVID vaccinations significantly reduce hospitalizations and deaths, reinforcing their effectiveness.
You can actually receive the flu shot and the COVID shot simultaneously; they’re available at many pharmacies, though eligibility may vary by location.
Taking overall care of your health through exercise and nutritious meals can help ward off respiratory viruses, according to Sood. Handwashing is another effective preventive measure.
“It’s wise to steer clear of individuals who are sick,” Foster advised.
If you’re at the airport and see someone sneezing nearby, it’s a good idea to move. Conversely, if you’re feeling unwell, it’s best to stay home or wear a mask.
“This is part of being a good citizen and protecting others,” Foster added.
At-home tests for COVID-19 and flu are vital this season. Testing positive means you should isolate and consult with your doctor regarding possible treatments.
“I feel we’ve somewhat lost that sense of community where our actions impact others,” Foster expressed.
You just never know if someone nearby may have health issues, and you could inadvertently put them at risk. “Staying home or wearing a mask isn’t difficult and could make a significant difference,” she remarked.
Although COVID-19 cases are currently low, situations can shift quickly, so it’s key to take precautions to stop the virus’s spread and safeguard those around you.
