High COVID-19 Test Positivity Rates Spread to the Midwest
A cluster of high COVID-19 test positivity rates in Texas and surrounding states has weakened but spread to portions of the Midwest, according to a map from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The CDC updated its map on Monday, revealing that the percentage of positive COVID tests dropped slightly overall across the nation for the week ending September 9, falling from 14.4 percent to 14.3 percent. The data is based on the results of 50,579 nucleic acid amplification tests, which differ from the antigen tests typically sold for home testing.
High Positivity Rates in Texas and Surrounding States
Positivity rates were significantly higher than average in two out of the ten regions that the CDC uses to group states. In region six, consisting of Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, and Oklahoma, the positivity rate was 17.3 percent. In region seven, covering Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska, 16.4 percent of tests were coming back positive. It is worth noting that all of the hotspots, with the exception of New Mexico, were in states that are Republican strongholds.
Republican governors in some of these states, like Texas and Oklahoma, have banned mask mandates, and GOP politicians have generally been hesitant to recommend masks, vaccines, and other measures to mitigate the spread of the virus. This political stance may have contributed to the higher positivity rates in these regions.
Positivity Rates Decrease in Texas and Surrounding States
While region six continued to have the highest positivity rate, the region did experience significantly less positive tests compared to the previous week when 20.3 percent of tests had positive results. This slight decrease in positivity rates could potentially be attributed to changes in behavior as more individuals choose to get vaccinated or take other precautions.
Low Positivity Rates in Other Regions
On the other end of the spectrum, testing positivity rates hit a low of 10.4 percent in the CDC’s region three. This region includes Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and the District of Columbia. Following closely behind, region one, consisting of Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Vermont, had a positivity rate of 12.4 percent. These regions have taken more proactive measures, such as mask mandates and vaccination campaigns, which may have contributed to their lower positivity rates.
Increase in COVID-Related Hospitalizations
The CDC’s updated data also shows a small but significant increase in COVID-related hospitalizations nationally. There were a total of 20,538 new hospitalizations for the week ending September 9, compared to 19,068 in the previous week. This trend highlights the importance of continued efforts to control the spread of the virus and protect vulnerable populations.
Impact of COVID Vaccine Boosters
Distribution of COVID vaccine booster shots began late last week, with the shots now available in many parts of the country. The CDC recommended the new boosters for anyone over 6 months of age last week.
It is unclear whether the updated boosters, which are expected to be effective despite being based on a strain of the virus that is no longer prevalent, will have any impact on positivity rates heading into the fall. However, the booster shots have been shown to enhance immune response and provide an additional layer of protection against severe illness and hospitalization.
While some individuals may express reservations about the new boosters, it is important to note that COVID vaccines have been extensively studied and proven to be safe and highly protective against serious disease and death. While they may be less effective in preventing infections altogether, they still provide some level of protection and contribute to the effort of reducing the overall transmission of the virus.
Continued Importance of COVID-19 Prevention Measures
The likelihood of widespread adoption of the boosters may be low, as a large majority of Americans did not take the updated booster shots released last year. Nevertheless, it remains crucial to continue implementing and adhering to preventive measures such as mask-wearing, social distancing, and vaccination to curb the ongoing impact of the virus.
Although the COVID public health emergency officially ended in the U.S. and globally in May, the virus continues to pose a significant threat. It is important to remain vigilant and follow recommended guidelines to protect oneself and others from the virus. Regular testing, vaccination, and adherence to preventive measures remain key strategies in mitigating the spread of COVID-19.
As the situation evolves, it is essential to stay informed and follow the guidance of reputable sources such as the CDC. By working together and prioritizing public health, we can overcome the challenges posed by COVID-19 and work towards a healthier and safer future for all.
