- CDC reports a significant rise in COVID-19 hospitalizations across 16 U.S. states before Christmas, with Delaware seeing the highest increase.
- The sitatuation prompts renewed mask mandates.
- Nationwide, ICU occupancy rises 3%, and deaths increase by 10%. Despite alarming spikes, some states report relatively low hospital admissions.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals a significant increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations across 16 states in the week leading up to Christmas.
Cold Weather Fuels Virus Spread
Colder temperatures contribute to a surge in virus transmission. A 2020 study suggests that the COVID virus may thrive longer in cold, dry conditions, making winter months conducive to increased infections.
Fresh Mask Mandates Amid Rising Infections
California, Illinois, Massachusetts, New York, and Washington D.C. reintroduce mask mandates due to elevated cases of respiratory diseases like COVID and influenza, putting added strain on hospitals.
Regional Variations: Hotspots and Stable Conditions
Delaware experiences the highest spike in hospitalizations, soaring by 61.9%. South Carolina, Louisiana, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Mississippi witness substantial week-on-week increases. States like New York, Pennsylvania, Florida, and Texas see statewide increases of over 20%.
National Snapshot: ICU Occupancy and Rising Deaths
Nationwide, there’s a 3% rise in COVID-19 patients in intensive-care units. Despite a 10% week-to-week increase in deaths, data for many states remains incomplete.
While the surge in some states may seem concerning, it often reflects a relatively low number of hospital admissions. Delaware, for example, reports just 102 hospitalizations in a week out of a total of 20,997 since August 2020.
The situation underscores the ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic and the importance of monitoring regional variations to implement targeted responses.
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Source: Newsweek
