Health
Staying Healthy as COVID-19 Cases Rise Again
Health Points
- COVID-19 infections are increasing in many U.S. states, especially before the holidays.
- The Stratus XFG variant remains dominant, with similar symptoms to previous strains.
- Testing is essential for early detection, particularly with overlapping flu symptoms this winter.
COVID-19 is rising across the country just as travel and gatherings ramp up for the holidays. Experts note that along with this uptick, influenza is also circulating widely.
According to recent CDC data, COVID-19 infections are growing in 31 states, and the Stratus XFG variant continues to drive most cases due to its high transmissibility.
With fewer Americans getting this season’s updated shot, health professionals expect cases to keep climbing in the coming weeks.
Where Are Cases Climbing?
The Midwest and Northeast are seeing the biggest increases in COVID-19 activity. As of December 18, states like Massachusetts, Ohio, Michigan, and Arizona are reporting high or moderate levels of COVID found in wastewater samples.
Nationally, the overall viral activity is low, but some regions are experiencing moderate to high levels. Testing positivity rates and hospitalizations are slightly up, especially among people over 65.
Catching the Symptoms Early
The current dominant variant, Stratus, causes symptoms similar to earlier strains—fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue, congestion, loss of taste or smell, headache or muscle aches, nausea, or digestive troubles.
Older adults, the immunocompromised, and those with chronic health conditions are at higher risk of complications. “Anyone can still wind up in the hospital with COVID-19—even young, healthy people,” says Dr. William Schaffner.
If you notice symptoms, knowing the cause helps guide treatment options. Antivirals like Paxlovid can reduce the severity if taken early.
COVID-19, the flu, and colds can look quite similar. “Even infectious disease physicians such as myself, I don’t think we can reliably distinguish the illness just by talking to a patient. That’s why testing is so important,” explains Schaffner.
Testing Remains Key
Regular testing helps protect you and your loved ones and reduces community spread. Both PCR and rapid at-home antigen tests can reliably detect the latest COVID-19 strains, and 3-in-1 tests can also check for flu.
Dr. Schaffner recommends keeping tests on hand. If you feel unwell or experience symptoms, use a test and follow public health guidelines for care and isolation if positive.
By staying alert to symptoms and making use of available testing, you can celebrate the holidays with extra peace of mind.
