COVID-19 Cases Surge Across U.S., Prompting Concern from Health Experts

Health experts in the St. Louis area are warning residents about a recent increase in COVID-19 cases, although case rates and hospitalizations are still lower than previous surges. They recommend that residents prepare to get the updated COVID-19 vaccine booster when it becomes available and consider taking preventive measures in crowded settings. Older individuals, those with weakened immune systems, and pregnant individuals may want to consider wearing masks in public or in crowds. The region has tools to prevent and treat COVID-19, but it has become more difficult for residents to know when there is an increase in cases due to changes in reporting and the use of at-home tests. Experts advise residents to stock up on test kits and check expiration dates before discarding them.