As Americans prepare for holiday celebrations, COVID-19 cases may be rising according to CDC wastewater data. Learn how to stay safe this season.
The holiday season is here, bringing with it joy, travel, and reunions with loved ones. However, alongside the festive cheer comes a potential “winter wave” of COVID-19, as indicated by recent data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
According to the CDC’s National Wastewater Surveillance System, evidence of COVID-19 in wastewater samples has risen to moderate levels for the week ending December 14, up from lower levels the previous week. This suggests an increased risk of infection as people gather for holiday celebrations.
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Rising COVID Levels Nationwide
Currently, over 40% of U.S. states report high or very high levels of COVID-19 virus detected in wastewater. These findings align with previous trends, where winter months often see a surge in respiratory illnesses due to more indoor gatherings and colder weather.
Noah Greenspan, program director at the Pulmonary Wellness & Rehabilitation Center in New York City, emphasizes the importance of taking precautions during this high-risk period. “At a time when people are spending more time indoors, attending holiday events and gatherings, and there is an increase in circulating pathogens, people really need to take precautions if they don’t want to get sick,” Greenspan told USA TODAY.
Public Health Concerns
Michael Hoerger, a public health expert at Tulane University, warns that the current data points to a large winter wave of COVID-19. He estimates that one in 64 Americans is actively infectious. In a family gathering of 10 people, there’s a one in eight chance of exposure if no one is testing or isolating, Hoerger shared on X (formerly Twitter).
“This is a very risky time in terms of lots of people interacting indoors,” Hoerger told Today.com, highlighting the unpredictability of transmission rates during holiday gatherings.
How to Stay Safe
With the holidays in full swing, here are some tips to protect yourself and your loved ones:
- Get Vaccinated: Ensure you are up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters.
- Wear Masks in Crowded Areas: Use masks in indoor spaces with poor ventilation or large crowds.
- Practice Good Hygiene: Wash hands regularly and avoid touching your face.
- Test Before Gathering: Use rapid COVID-19 tests before attending events, especially if vulnerable individuals will be present.
- Stay Home if Unwell: If you have symptoms, avoid gatherings to prevent spreading illness.
While the holiday season is a time for joy and connection, it’s also crucial to prioritize health and safety. By staying vigilant, we can celebrate responsibly and protect our communities.
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