NYC Faces Largest Summer COVID Wave Yet: Wastewater Data Shows Surge

NYC's COVID-19 Cases Surge Amid Summer Wave

New York City is experiencing a significant rise in COVID-19 cases, mirroring a nationwide trend. Wastewater surveillance data from the CDC reveals that COVID-19 viral activity is at "very high" levels in 27 states, including New York, and "high" levels in 17 more.

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This summer wave is being driven by the FLiRT variant, which is responsible for about 6% of positive COVID cases nationwide. While the new variant appears to cause less severe illness, it is still spreading quickly.

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Key Takeaways:

• Wastewater data reveals a surge in COVID-19 cases in NYC and across the US.
• The FLiRT variant, a new COVID-19 strain, is contributing to the surge.
• CDC recommends getting updated COVID-19 vaccines when they become available this fall.
• Hospitalizations are also on the rise, but not as high as during previous winter waves.

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Symptoms of FLiRT Variant

Those infected with the FLiRT variant may experience:

• Sore throat
• Cough
• Fatigue
• Congestion
• Runny nose
• Fever or chills
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Loss of sense of taste or smell
• Diarrhea

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How to Protect Yourself

To protect yourself from the FLiRT variant, health officials recommend:

• Avoiding crowded indoor areas
• Wearing a mask
• Avoiding those who are sick with COVID-19

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Experts emphasize that vaccination remains crucial to combating the virus and maintaining population immunity.