Covid Cases Rise: What's Happening in the US?

South Central Region Hit Hardest

• States affected: Arkansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Texas
• Positivity rate: 15%
• Underreporting possible: At-home tests and ignored mild symptoms may skew data

West Also Experiencing Surge

• States affected: Alaska, Hawaii, Nevada, Texas, Utah
• Positivity rate: 10%
• Wastewater data: Shows "very high" virus activity, detecting virus earlier than clinical tests

Summer Factors

• Increased indoor time: Air-conditioned spaces and travel boost transmission
• Waning immunity: Vaccine protection from last fall may be fading

CDC Changes

• Leadership shake-up: Director removed, top officials resigned
• Political influence accusations: Agency faces scrutiny

Upcoming Vaccine Discussions

• CDC panel meeting: September discussion on vaccine access and affordability
• FDA approvals: Updated vaccines for seniors; limited access for younger, low-risk individuals