Baltimore, MD – As summer progresses, Maryland is experiencing a worrisome rise in COVID-19 cases. Hospitalization records and wastewater surveillance system data point to a viral comeback, consistent with past years’ trends.
The number of hospitalizations attributable to COVID-19 has increased by almost 100% in the last month, from 60 nos. on June 22nd to 135 nos. on July 23rd, as per data supplied by the Maryland Department of Health. Even if this tendency is concerning, the numbers are still much lower than the high reached during the yearly winter surge in January.
There has been a discernible rise in patients coming with COVID-19 symptoms, according to Dr. Gregory Corcoran, director of Sinai Hospital’s emergency department in Baltimore. Even though the majority of cases are mild and just cause fever, body aches, vomiting, and diarrhoea, there has been a noticeable increase.
COVID-19 levels in Maryland have significantly increased, according to wastewater data, a trustworthy measure of viral prevalence in a community. This data indicates a wider community distribution of the infection and supports the hospitalization patterns.
A strain renowned for its great transmissibility, Omicron, is the one causing the spike at the moment. Experts caution that the rapid spread of this variety is partly due to its improved immunity-evading capabilities due to mutations.
Family medicine specialist Dr. Niharika Khanna of the University of Maryland Medical Center stated, “We’re seeing a clear resurgence of COVID-19, and it’s important for the community to remain vigilant.” “While this wave of cases seems to be milder compared to previous waves, the increased transmissibility means we could see a more significant impact on vulnerable individuals.”
The summertime spike in Maryland is consistent with a nationwide trend. high COVID-19 levels in wastewater have been found in many states, including nearby jurisdictions like Virginia and Washington, D.C., according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
To slow the virus’s spread, locals are being urged to take preventative measures by health experts. Maintaining current immunization records, donning masks in crowded indoor environments, washing your hands frequently, and separating yourself when you’re feeling sick are all examples of this.
Experts stress that even while the situation is changing, it is crucial to keep a careful eye on things and modify public health policies as necessary. In order to safeguard oneself and the community this summer, it is imperative to stay up to date on the most recent guidelines and changes.