The Biden administration recently advised renewed caution about COVID-19, emphasizing the importance of booster shots for those who are eligible, and recommending mask wearing indoors. This reflects the appearance of new highly transmissible variants which are rapidly spreading, and more contagious than their predecessors. Staying up to date on your COVID-19 vaccines will provide the best protection against severe outcomes.
Dr. Rochelle Walensky, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, has reported that the U.S. has seen a doubling in the number of COVID-19 hospitalizations since April, reflecting the spread of these new subvariants. CDC data shows that ~30% of Americans live in areas classified as experiencing a high level of COVID spread, recommending that masks be worn in public indoor spaces. Another 41% live in the “medium” level (Montgomery County included), and people are recommended to consider their individual risk regarding masking.
All Americans aged 5 and over are encouraged get a booster 5 months after their initial primary series. Individuals 50 and over, and especially those who are immunocompromised, should get a second booster four months after their first. Tens of millions of eligible Americans have still not received their first booster, and of those over 50 who were vaccinated, only 28% have received their second shot.
We all have an obligation to help limit exposure of our family, friends, and community to evolving COVID 19 variants. An easy way to do this is to raise awareness of possible exposures, so others can make informed decisions about their health care.
If you have been exposed to Covid, consult this CDC document on informing your close contacts.