Understanding the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Role in Monitoring the COVID-19 Summer Surge

As the summer of 2023 unfolds, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a notable increase in COVID-19 cases across the United States. This rise is particularly evident in wastewater data, which has become a crucial tool for tracking the virus due to the decline in traditional testing. According to the CDC, high levels of COVID-19 have been detected in wastewater in almost every state, with at least ten states reporting very high levels. This surge has led experts like Dr. Ashish Jha, dean of the school of public health at Brown University, to suggest that this could be the most significant summer wave of COVID-19 yet.

The CDC has now labeled COVID-19 as endemic, indicating that the virus is here to stay and will follow predictable patterns. Typically, there are two waves of COVID-19 each year: a smaller one in the summer and a larger one in the winter. However, unlike the flu, COVID-19 infections can rise between these waves, making it a year-round concern. Dr. Otto Yang, an infectious disease expert, supports this view, emphasizing that COVID-19 is likely to persist throughout the year rather than following a strictly seasonal pattern like the flu.

This summer’s wave, while smaller than previous winter surges, is still significant. The dominant strains currently circulating are Kp. 3.1.1 and Kp. 3, both of which have evolved from the Omicron variant. In response to these evolving strains, new vaccines are being developed and are expected to be available by September. These updated vaccines are anticipated to be more effective against the current dominant variants, providing better protection than the existing vaccines, which were designed to target last year’s dominant strains.

Despite the emergence of new variants and the ongoing rise in cases, vaccination remains the best defense against COVID-19. Treatments like Paxlovid also offer effective options for those who contract the virus. Dr. Jha recommends getting one shot of the vaccine per year, ideally around the same time as the flu shot. Dr. Yang adds that a booster shot may be beneficial for those who haven’t been vaccinated in the past six months. Although this summer spike may be the worst so far, there is some positive news: deaths from COVID-19 have decreased significantly compared to previous years, thanks to the immunity built up over time.

The latest wastewater data from the CDC reveals that more than half of U.S. states are reporting very high levels of COVID-19 activity. Specifically, 27 states are experiencing very high levels, while 17 states report high levels of viral activity in wastewater. The western region of the U.S. continues to see the highest levels of COVID-19 spread, followed by the south, midwest, and northeast. While these levels are lower than those observed during the winter months, when respiratory illnesses typically increase, they still indicate a concerning trend.

Experts acknowledge the limitations of using wastewater data to track the virus’s spread within communities. Nevertheless, it remains one of the best available tools for monitoring COVID-19 activity. Dr. John Brownstein, an epidemiologist and chief innovation officer, believes that wastewater analysis is essential in filling the gaps left by the reduction in comprehensive case reporting and hospitalization data. Since the national public health emergency ended, many national surveillance systems have been scaled back, leaving authorities with limited resources to monitor the virus. As a result, wastewater analysis has emerged as a reliable method for tracking COVID-19 trends in communities.

In addition to wastewater data, other surveillance systems such as emergency department visits and test positivity rates are also on the rise, according to the CDC. However, deaths from the virus remain relatively stable, especially when compared to previous years. Federal health authorities have announced that updated COVID-19 vaccines will be available in the fall. The FDA has recommended that vaccine manufacturers formulate shots based on the KP.2 strain, a subvariant of the Omicron variant that currently accounts for about 6% of cases. Other variants like KP.3.1.1 and KP.3 make up nearly half of the estimated cases, according to CDC data.

The CDC has recommended that everyone over the age of six months receive an updated COVID-19 vaccine this season. This recommendation will take effect as soon as the vaccines are made available and approved by the FDA. While there is no confirmed delivery date for the updated vaccines, they are typically released in late August or September. Vaccine manufacturers have stated that they are prepared to ship doses as soon as they receive FDA approval. These updated vaccines are expected to be more effective against new and emerging variants, providing better protection for the population.

Despite the ongoing vaccination efforts, the rise in COVID-19 cases has not gone unnoticed at local levels. For instance, Goshen Health has reported a small increase in cases. However, it is believed that some individuals are not getting tested for COVID-19, potentially underestimating the true number of cases. The CDC no longer recommends a five-day quarantine for those who test positive. Instead, they advise staying home until symptoms improve and there is no fever. Dr. Dan Nafziger of Goshen Health notes that some people may be confusing COVID-19 with common colds or allergies, further complicating the situation.

The specific reasons for the increase in cases are not entirely clear, but several factors may contribute. People spending more time indoors with air conditioning during the summer, a decrease in immunity, and the emergence of new variants could all play a role. Wastewater samples in the area have also shown an increase in the detection of the virus. COVID-19 is expected to become a seasonal virus, similar to the flu, but spikes in cases have been observed throughout the year. A shift in safety mindset over the past 4.5 years may also be contributing to the uptick in cases and hospitalizations.

It is crucial to be honest about symptoms and get tested if there is any suspicion of illness. This honesty is vital in preventing the spread of the virus to others. Dr. Nafziger emphasizes that people can help protect their friends and family by getting tested, wearing masks when sick, and limiting social activities if they have symptoms. Early detection and treatment are essential in managing the virus and preventing further transmission. Following the CDC’s recommendations and staying home if experiencing symptoms of a respiratory virus can help prevent the spread of not just COVID-19 but other respiratory illnesses as well.

The summer heat may have contributed to the recent increase in cases, as people are spending more time indoors with air conditioning. It is important to continue taking precautions and following safety protocols, even as the vaccine rollout continues. By staying vigilant and adhering to guidelines, we can help prevent future spikes in COVID-19 cases. The CDC’s ongoing efforts to monitor and respond to the virus are crucial in managing its impact on public health. Understanding the role of the CDC and the importance of vaccination, testing, and preventive measures can help us navigate this challenging period and work towards a safer future.