A Return of COVID-19 this Summer

July 30, 2024

Like previous years, COVID-19 is making a summer comeback with 20 states reporting “very high” viral activity level.

The return of the virus comes as public health leaders prepare for a rollout of another new COVID-19 vaccine for the fall.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Driving the trend:  Data collection for COVID-19 has reduced significantly since the start of the pandemic. Without case reporting, surveillance of wastewater offers insights into the current spread of the virus.
  • Predictable pattern:  Warm temperatures, waning immunity, new variants, and indoor gathering all contribute to more COVID-19 infections this summer.
• Statewide:  Pennsylvania is among 10 states reporting moderate levels for COVID-19 in the wastewater. Thirty-eight states are reporting “high” or “very high” viral activity in their wastewater.
• Notable:  Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman announced he tested positive for COVID-19 over the weekend, but was experiencing mild symptoms at home.
  • Olympics:  With the Olympics kicking off last week, several athletes have tested positive during what has been deemed the first “post-pandemic” games.
• Coming soon:  Another new COVID-19 vaccine is expected to be available this fall.
  • The CDC recommends everyone ages 6 months and older receive an updated 2024–2025 COVID-19 vaccine this fall and winter (whether they have ever previously been vaccinated with a COVID-19 vaccine).
• Quotable:  “Our top recommendation for protecting yourself and your loved ones from respiratory illness is to get vaccinated,” said CDC Director Mandy Cohen, MD, MPH. “Make a plan now for you and your family to get both updated flu and COVID vaccines this fall, ahead of the respiratory virus season.”

Additional information is available online.