Many parts of the country are reporting new COVID-19 spikes. The CDC reports that the new variant, EG.5, also called “Eris”, now makes up the largest number of infections nationwide, and is one of the fastest growing worldwide.
Data from early August shows that hospital admissions rose by 22% compared to the previous week, and reported cases jumped by 55% from the week before.
Take precautions
Since EG.5 is resisting immunity more than Omicron, we need to take precautions by wearing N95 masks in airports, public transportation and indoor venues. We also need to be careful with the elderly and those who are immuno-comprised with conditions like cancer and diabetes.
In the fall, as more people gather indoors, doctors expect a bigger COVID uptick. For now, it’s recommended that adults and most children get one updated Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, regardless of whether they’ve received any original COVID-19 vaccines.
A new vaccine is expected in the fall, and we’ll keep you informed about that and provide you with more guidance.
If you are showing symptoms, we can connect you to your healthcare provider or refer you to a primary care physician. Contact our Health Navigation Center at 844.258.1820.