COVID Cases on the Rise in Metro Area, Urging Precautions
As COVID-19 cases continue to increase across the country, residents in the metro area are being advised to take extra precautions. Recent data from the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) reveals a concerning uptick in the viral load found in the wastewater.
The MDH report indicates a significant 54% increase in the total viral load in the metro during the week ending July 23, compared to the previous week. The dominant variant identified is XBB, a highly transmissible omicron subvariant that emerged during the winter months.
The surge in cases is not limited to the metro area alone. The CDC’s COVID tracker page shows a 12% increase in hospital admissions nationwide during the same week. Medical experts warn that these reported cases are likely just the tip of the iceberg, with many individuals potentially carrying the virus unknowingly due to limited or no symptoms.
Despite the concerning increase, hospitalizations in the country remain relatively low. Currently, there are approximately 8,000 hospitalizations nationwide, a substantial drop from the peak of more than 150,000 hospitalizations during the spread of the omicron variant.
In Minnesota, the wastewater data indicates that the viral load is within the lowest 15% of observed values since MDH began tracking it in November 2020. However, health officials emphasize the importance of taking precautions, particularly for individuals with underlying health conditions.
Dr. Darien Sutton, a medical contributor for ABC News, advises individuals to be proactive by wearing masks and ensuring their vaccination status is up to date. While hospitalization rates remain relatively low, it is crucial to prioritize personal and public safety.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines an individual as up to date with their COVID vaccine if they have received the bivalent dose, which offers protection against the original strain and the BA.4 and BA.5 omicron subvariants.
Looking ahead, the FDA anticipates rolling out the next booster in the fall. The FDA’s advisory committee has already voted to update the booster to a monovalent vaccine, specifically targeting the XBB variant. Manufacturers have been directed to develop this updated booster.
As the number of COVID cases rises, it is essential for individuals to remain vigilant and follow recommended safety measures. Regularly monitoring updates from health authorities and prioritizing personal protection can help combat the spread of the virus in the metro area and beyond.
For related stories and more information, please contact Callan Gray at [email protected] or visit the Minnesota Department of Health’s website.
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