Covid-19 cases are on the rise in the United States, with an increase in emergency department visits associated with the virus. The recent data shows a 23.5% rise in emergency visits for Covid-19 compared to the previous week. The viral activity level for Covid-19 in wastewater is also reported to be high. This resurgence of cases has raised concerns about the summer spread of the virus. Older adults, immunocompromised individuals, and those with underlying medical conditions are advised to be especially cautious. While many people have returned to their pre-pandemic lives, it is important to consider individual circumstances and take precautions such as masking and gathering outdoors. Rapid antigen home tests can be used as a convenient method for screening Covid-19, though they are not as accurate as lab PCR tests. People who develop symptoms should stay away from vulnerable individuals, even if they test negative. When traveling, wearing N95 or equivalent masks in crowded spaces, dining outdoors, bringing rapid tests, and having a plan for accessing antiviral treatments are recommended. A new formulation of the Covid-19 vaccine is expected to be available soon, which closely targets circulating variants and provides better protection for the fall and winter seasons. The primary purpose of the vaccine is to reduce the risk of severe illness, although additional precautions may be necessary to protect against infection. The CDC recommends staying home until fever-free for at least 24 hours and symptoms improving if diagnosed with Covid-19, but the level of precautions depends on the vulnerability of other household members. Vulnerable individuals should be avoided until testing negative for Covid-19 to minimize the risk of transmission.
