"The virus is determined to survive." California's significant rise in COVID cases isn't expected to slow down anytime soon.

California's COVID-19 Situation: Overview and Guidance

As COVID-19 cases surge in California this summer, experts caution that the new strains driving the spread may persist for a while. The recent increase in cases is largely due to a group of highly transmissible subvariants collectively called the FLiRT variants. These variants have rapidly replaced the previously dominant JN.1 strain and are challenging immune systems that have not yet adapted to them.

Dr. Elizabeth Hudson, regional chief of infectious disease at Kaiser Permanente Southern California, noted that the emergence of new variants is expected as the virus continues to evolve to evade immunity. This rapid evolution helps the virus sustain its spread, making the FLiRT variants particularly concerning. Among these, the KP.3.1.1 strain has seen significant growth, comprising 17.7% of samples nationwide as of July 20, compared to 6.8% in the prior two weeks. In contrast, the older KP.3 strain has plateaued.

The coronavirus remains unpredictable, with frequent new variants emerging as it adapts to human immune defenses. This pattern, seen before with the Delta and Omicron variants, underscores the virus's adaptability and the importance of continued vigilance.

Current COVID-19 Metrics in California

• Wastewater Data: The CDC reports that coronavirus levels in California's wastewater have been "very high" for three consecutive weeks, approaching 93% of the peak levels seen in summer 2022.
• Testing: The positivity rate for COVID-19 tests has surpassed last summer's peak, with 13.8% of tests returning positive as of July 22.
• Hospitalizations and Deaths: While overall hospitalizations and deaths are lower than last summer, there were still around 286 COVID-19-positive individuals hospitalized in Los Angeles County for the week ending July 20.

Prevention Tips

• Vaccination: Staying up-to-date on vaccinations is crucial, especially for those at higher risk of severe illness. People are encouraged to get the latest booster shots.
• Avoiding Exposure: Be cautious of symptoms and avoid close contact with others if feeling unwell, as symptoms could indicate COVID-19.
• Masking: Although not required, wearing masks in crowded places, especially during travel, can help reduce the risk of infection.

If You Get COVID-19

• Testing: Continue testing if symptoms persist, even up to five days after onset.
• Isolation and Precautions: Follow CDC guidelines for isolation and mask use, including staying home until symptoms improve and taking extra precautions for five days after symptoms resolve.
• Avoiding Vulnerable Individuals: Refrain from contact with high-risk individuals for at least 10 days.
• Antiviral Treatment: Consider antiviral medications like Paxlovid for mild to moderate cases, especially for those at risk of severe illness.

Beware of COVID Rebound: This condition can cause a resurgence of symptoms after initial recovery, potentially leading to renewed infectivity. Follow isolation guidelines if symptoms return.