Americans may want to brace for a familiar sound: coughing. New federal data shows COVID-19 is spreading again in nearly all parts of the country, with infections on the upswing in every state.
According to modeling from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “COVID-19 infections are growing or likely growing in 50 states.” No state is currently reporting a decline in cases as of mid-August. The trend marks a broad resurgence of the virus, though the agency emphasizes that severe outcomes remain uncommon.
Emergency department visits tied to COVID-19 are still “very low,” the CDC says, suggesting that while the virus is circulating more widely, it is not overwhelming hospitals at this point. Still, public health officials are watching closely, especially as fall approaches.
Wastewater data highlights hotspots
To get a clearer picture of where the virus is most active, the CDC relies on wastewater surveillance. Testing sewage can detect traces of COVID-19 even in people who show no symptoms, making it a valuable early-warning tool.
Hawaii and Mississippi are the only two states currently listed as having “moderate” levels of COVID-19 in wastewater, though data for Mississippi is limited. Elsewhere, the West and South are seeing more viral activity than other regions. Alabama, Alaska, California, Florida, Georgia, Oregon, Nevada, Texas, and Washington all report “low” levels, while the rest of the country is classified as “very low.”
The CDC also monitors influenza and RSV, both of which are showing up less frequently in wastewater than COVID-19. That suggests the current wave is primarily driven by the coronavirus, not other respiratory viruses.
New vaccine on the horizon
Looking ahead, an updated COVID-19 vaccine designed to target the prevalent XFG variant is expected to become available this fall. Health officials are urging eligible individuals to consider getting the shot once it's released, particularly those at higher risk for severe illness.
For now, the CDC advises standard precautions, including staying home when sick and practicing good hand hygiene. As the virus continues to evolve, wastewater data will remain a key tool in tracking its spread and informing public health responses.
While the rise in infections is notable, the relatively low rate of severe cases offers some reassurance. Still, with the fall season approaching and more time spent indoors, health experts are bracing for a continued uptick in transmission.
