COVID-19 Cases and Hospitalizations Surge in the U.S.

COVID-19 cases are increasing in the metro area, with a 54% rise in viral load in the wastewater compared to the previous week. The dominant variant is XBB, which is highly transmissible. Hospital admissions have also increased by 12% nationwide. However, hospitalizations remain low compared to the peak of the omicron variant. Medical experts advise taking precautions, especially for those with underlying health conditions, and staying up to date with vaccinations. The FDA is expected to roll out a monovalent vaccine targeting XBB in the fall.