The US is facing a COVID winter wave with an 8.6% increase in cases and 16,239 new hospital admissions in the week ending November 11. Several states, including Vermont, Iowa, and Alaska, have seen significant rises in hospitalizations. Colder weather facilitates the spread of the virus, and dominant COVID variants include HV.1, EG.5, FL.1.5.1, and XBB.1.16. To prevent infection, the WHO recommends wearing masks, maintaining physical distance, ventilating indoor spaces, avoiding crowded areas, practicing good hand hygiene, and getting vaccinated.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is warning that protection against Covid-19 is decreasing over time and the virus is changing, urging the public to get the latest booster vaccine to prepare for the upcoming winter wave. While Covid cases may be falling currently, health officials anticipate a moderate wave in the coming months. The newly-updated vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna are designed to target the omicron subvariant and offer protection against currently circulating subvariants. Experts also recommend booster vaccinations to minimize the risk of long Covid.
The United States is preparing for another wave of Covid-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) this winter. The government has approved updated Covid-19 vaccines and is advising every American, except young infants, to receive one. Free Covid-19 tests will also be available to order starting next week. Public health officials expect a winter surge of viral activity, but if people take advantage of vaccines and testing, the country will be better equipped to handle it. The CDC recommends updated Covid-19 vaccines for all Americans over 6 months old, and most health insurers will cover the cost. The Biden administration is also making free at-home Covid-19 rapid test kits available to every American household. The goal is to identify and isolate cases to prevent further spread. The government is hopeful that the public is more receptive to interventions like testing and vaccines, as recent polls show increased concern about Covid-19. The next few months will be crucial in determining the country's path out of the pandemic.
Europe is experiencing a resurgence in COVID-19 cases, attributed to the emergence of new variants. Experts warn of the possibility of another wave this winter, as respiratory viruses tend to spread during colder seasons. To mitigate the risk, vaccination against COVID-19 and influenza is strongly advocated, along with maintaining precautionary measures. The European Commission has approved the adaptation of COVID-19 vaccines to target emerging sub-variants. European countries are adopting proactive measures, such as advancing vaccination campaigns. The WHO emphasizes the need for robust surveillance data and international cooperation to guard against emerging risks.
