CDC Data Confirms Covid-19 Hospital Admissions Climb Per Capita
In recent data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it has been confirmed that hospital admissions for Covid-19 are climbing per capita across the United States. This alarming trend comes as the country faces a new wave of cases fueled by the emergence of highly mutated variants.
One such variant causing concern among public health experts is BA.2.86, unofficially referred to as “Pirola.” This newly-designated variant of the Omicron strain has sparked a surge in cases in several countries, including the US. According to a bulletin from Yale Medicine, BA.2.86 has over 30 mutations to its spike protein, which allows the virus to enter and infect human cells.
Infectious disease specialist Dr. Scott Roberts has expressed concern over the significant number of mutations seen in this variant. “When we went from [Omicron variant] XBB.1.5 to [Eris] EG.5, that was maybe one or two mutations,” said Dr. Roberts. “But these massive shifts, which we also saw from Delta to Omicron, are worrisome.”
Adding to the complexities, another dominant variant known as EG.5, or “Eris,” is causing a separate mini-wave of Covid cases. Since the end of July, hospitalizations have increased by 39%, further straining healthcare systems across the country.
In light of these developments, experts are emphasizing the importance of continued surveillance and testing. The World Health Organization (WHO) is closely monitoring the BA.X variant, also known as BA.2.86, due to its potential to lead to a rise in cases. The variant has so far been detected in Denmark, Israel, and the US.
Additionally, concerns over the spread of Covid-19 have arisen at the US Open tennis tournament. Illnesses and flu-like symptoms have been reported among players and audience members, raising suspicions of Covid transmission. Some experts suggest that the tournament’s lack of vaccination requirements and mask mandates may contribute to the potential spread of the virus.
Furthermore, experts warn that a lack of access to free Covid testing could fuel future waves of the virus. As Covid deaths and hospitalizations rise, it is crucial for individuals to test themselves if they have been exposed or are showing symptoms. However, without easily accessible and affordable testing options, containing the virus becomes more challenging.
Overall, as the US grapples with rising Covid-19 cases, the importance of continuing surveillance, testing, and adhering to preventive measures such as mask wearing cannot be overstated. It remains critical for individuals to stay vigilant and prioritize their health and the health of those around them.