Expect to hear more coughing in the coming weeks. COVID-19 cases are increasing across nearly every part of the U.S. According to modeling by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), COVID-19 infections are either growing or likely growing in all 50 states. As of mid-August, no states are experiencing a decline in cases.
Despite this trend, severe COVID-19 cases remain rare. Visits to emergency departments related to COVID are very low. CDC epidemic trend tracking indicates growth in every state, though no estimate is provided for Iowa.
“COVID-19 infections are growing or likely growing in 50 states.” – CDC
Wastewater testing offers insight into where the virus is most prevalent. Sewage analysis can detect the presence of COVID-19 in communities, identifying infections even among those who feel healthy, according to the CDC.
Hawaii and Mississippi exhibit moderate levels of COVID-19, although data for Mississippi is limited. The West and South regions display higher COVID-19 activity. States like Alabama, Alaska, California, Florida, Georgia, Oregon, Nevada, Texas, and Washington have low levels of COVID in wastewater. Other states record very low levels.
Wastewater data helps identify rising COVID cases that hospitals may not detect.
The CDC is also monitoring influenza and RSV levels. These respiratory viruses appear less frequently in wastewater compared to COVID-19.
An updated COVID-19 vaccine targeting the prevalent XFG variant is expected to become available in the fall.
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