Health officials are tracking a concerning rise in respiratory illnesses across the United States, with new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealing that COVID-19 infections are surging or showing upward trends in nearly one-fifth of all states.
According to the CDC’s latest surveillance report released November 19, 19 states are experiencing growing or likely growing COVID-19 transmission, painting a picture of uneven viral activity as the nation heads into the traditional respiratory illness season.
The federal health agency’s weekly update shows a mixed landscape of COVID-19 activity nationwide. While 19 states grapple with rising case numbers, four states are seeing declining or likely declining transmission rates. The remaining 22 states are holding steady with unchanged infection levels, suggesting the virus continues its unpredictable pattern of regional variation.
Influenza presents an even broader concern, with CDC data indicating that flu cases are rising or likely rising in 42 states – more than double the number of states experiencing COVID-19 increases. This widespread flu activity aligns with typical seasonal patterns but represents a significant portion of the country dealing with elevated influenza transmission.
The dual threat of COVID-19 and influenza circulation creates potential challenges for healthcare systems already managing routine winter respiratory illnesses. Public health experts continue monitoring these trends closely as both viruses can cause severe illness, particularly among vulnerable populations including older adults, young children, and individuals with underlying health conditions.
This latest CDC surveillance data underscores the ongoing importance of preventive measures during respiratory virus season. Health officials recommend staying up-to-date with vaccinations for both COVID-19 and influenza, practicing good hygiene, and considering masks in crowded indoor settings, especially for high-risk individuals.
The agency’s weekly reports provide crucial insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and communities to prepare for and respond to changing disease patterns across different regions of the country.
