The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released estimates on Friday that suggest an increase in COVID-19 infections in at least 12 states and the District of Columbia. Health officials are monitoring for indications that the virus may be regaining momentum following a springtime hiatus.
The CDC predicts that COVID-19 infections are increasing in the following states: Alaska, Arizona, California, Washington, D.C., Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, Oregon, Texas, and Washington State, as revealed by data from ER visits that the agency examined.
The number of COVID-19 cases reported in nursing homes is still relatively low, in line with national records. The virus is still regarded as “minimal” on a national scale, according to preliminary data from the CDC’s COVID-19 wastewater surveillance program. However, viral levels in Western sewersheds appear to be increasing. The KP.2 and KP.1.1 dominant genotypes of the virus, which are frequently referred to as the “FLiRT” variations, are currently in circulation.
Health experts have asserted that the two strains are closely related to the JN.1 variation from the wave that occurred this past winter, with the exception of two minor modifications that may be aiding in their dissemination. According to a representative for the organization on May 10, the CDC does not believe that the variants are “causing an increase in infections” due to the limited transmission of SARS-CoV-2. Based on the available data, there are no indications that KP.2 would lead to a more severe illness than other strains.
The representative had declared, “CDC will monitor the virus’s dissemination throughout the population and the efficacy of immunizations against this strain.”
