Test positivity, emergency room visits, hospitalizations and deaths are increasing as expert warns: ‘It’s still dangerous’

Summary

Covid cases are surging across the U.S. post-holidays, with rising test positivity, hospitalizations, and deaths, while booster uptake remains low.

Only 21.4% of adults and 10.3% of children have received the latest booster, leaving vulnerable groups, including the elderly, at higher risk.

Experts warn of continued dangers from Covid, including long Covid and economic impacts, as the virus has not yet reached an endemic state.

With uncertain federal priorities, researchers stress the importance of monitoring infections, updating vaccines, and using preventive measures to mitigate future waves.

  • Lenny
    11•3 days ago

    I got a booster in September as I was planning a trip to India, but I will say that thing knocked me on my fucking ass so much. As much as I believe in vaccination, it’s gonna be a hard sell to my brain to go back next year and get it again.

    • @[email protected]English
      29•2 days ago

      Whenever a vaccine kicks my butt like that I just tell myself “good job, having a strong immune reaction.” If the vaccine was that bad I imagine the real deal would be much worse, especially without the vaccine.

      Also, my dad died of COVID pre-vaccine, so I’m taking the vaccine whenever it’s offered to me.

      • Lenny
        8•3 days ago

        I’ve had it, and it was the same intensity but for longer. I know that the vaccine works and minimizes the effects, but damn, opting into that kind of sick is still a hard sell.

    • @bitchkatEnglish
      10•3 days ago

      I just got my booster last week and this was the first one where I didnt need the next day in bed. I’ve never had the 'Rona (that I know of).

    • @[email protected]
      3•2 days ago

      I know what you mean. Like, I understand that the vaccination is definitely worth taking. But feeling sick for a day after taking it saps the motivation to get it again. I want the vaccine, but it’s so much harder to organise getting it again after having a negative experience like that. (Note, I’ve have a few covid vaccinations; and only once did I feel sick for a day because of it.)