US COVID hospitalizations rise for 4th consecutive week.
US COVID hospitalizations rise for 4th consecutive week.
New Hospitalizations for Severe COVID-19 on the Rise Again
The number of hospitalizations for severe COVID-19 cases in the United States is once again on the rise. Data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that hospital admissions have been increasing for the past four weeks, with the southeastern states being hit the hardest.
In the week ending August 5, there were 10,320 newly hospitalized COVID-19 patients in the United States, indicating a 14.3% increase. However, this number is significantly lower than the peak seen last summer, which saw more than 42,800 patients hospitalized within a week.
The Southeastern region, comprising Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee, has been particularly affected, with nearly 4.6 new COVID-19 patients hospitalized per 100,000 residents. In comparison, the national average stands at just over 3 new patients per 100,000 residents.
It is not only severe cases among seniors that are contributing to the rise in hospitalizations. Recent data from emergency rooms across the country indicates an increase in visits from children up to the age of 11. In fact, these visits have now matched the number of visits from seniors. CBS News reports that in the region including Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas, children’s visits to the emergency room outnumber those of adults within the age group of 0 to 11.
Amidst this rise in hospitalizations, one particular variant, EG.5, has emerged as the dominant strain, accounting for 17.3% of all COVID-19 infections in the country. As we approach the fall season, booster shots are expected to target the XBB variant, but they are also likely to offer some protection against EG.5, which is a descendant of the XBB variant.
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However, concerns have been raised by the World Health Organization (WHO) regarding the potential for EG.5 to outcompete other XBB variants. The WHO warns that this variant could cause a surge in case incidence and become dominant in some countries or even globally.
In light of these developments, it is crucial for individuals to remain vigilant and follow public health guidelines to prevent the further spread of COVID-19. Vaccination, mask-wearing, and practicing good hygiene are essential in protecting ourselves and our communities.
Source: CBS News