In recent times, California is experiencing a summer Covid-19 surge. Two new variants, KP.3 and KP.2, are gaining traction and contributing to the nationwide rise in cases since May.
The increase in Covid-19 cases has been detected through wastewater surveillance conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC tests sewage for the virus at more than 1,000 wastewater sites across the country. This data provides a window into viral trends in a community and has become particularly useful as people increasingly take Covid tests at home and may not report their results.
According to the wastewater data from California's 43 reporting sites, Covid levels are considered very high by the CDC. There are only three states - Florida, Nevada and Oregon - where Covid is spreading at higher rates. The last time levels were this elevated in California was in January, much closer to the peak of its winter surge.
In response to the rising cases, President Joe Biden tested positive for Covid-19 due to the KP.3 variant. An expected new vaccine may be available as early as August. However, many Americans are vulnerable to getting sick again as it's been more than six months since they've had a booster shot or a recent infection.
Emergency department visits related to Covid-19 increased 23.5% last week, according to data from the CDC. However, this is far below the level seen during the core of the pandemic.
Public health officials advise that people should be cautious and follow CDC guidance as we navigate through this summer surge.
