COVID-19 cases are rising again in the US, especially in Texas, California, Oregon, Nevada, and New Mexico, driven by new variants Stratus and Nimbus. Despite lower overall rates compared to previous peaks, the surge highlights the importance of precautions like testing, masking, and vaccination, particularly in high-risk regions. The situation underscores ongoing challenges in tracking and managing COVID-19, with recommendations for individuals to stay vigilant and protect themselves and others.
A significant Covid-19 spike is occurring across several US states, especially in Arkansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Texas, with underreported cases and increased positivity rates, amid ongoing debates over vaccination policies and recent CDC leadership resignations.
Several Bay Area counties, including Alameda, Contra Costa, San Mateo, and Sonoma, have issued new mask mandates for health care workers in hospitals and other healthcare facilities due to the seasonal upticks in COVID-19 and respiratory illnesses. The orders will go into effect on November 1. The rise in hospitalizations due to COVID-19 in California has prompted the White House to announce the distribution of four free at-home COVID-19 rapid tests to every U.S. household starting on September 25.
Berkeley and Oakland are experiencing a summer COVID-19 surge, although the number of cases is lower than last year. Factors contributing to the surge include new variants, people not receiving COVID boosters, and travel. A new subvariant called XBB is responsible for a growing number of cases. The county's test positivity rates have increased, and it is important to get tested for COVID if experiencing cold-like symptoms. Some community testing sites have shifted their focus to the underinsured or uninsured. Health insurance providers in California will continue to cover PCR testing, vaccines, and at-home testing kits. It is crucial to continue wearing masks indoors in crowded public places.
