New COVID-19 Variants Drive Early Summer Case Surge in the U.S.

Rising infection rates linked to FLiRT variants prompt concerns as summer travel increases.

COVID-19 cases are rising in several U.S. regions, including the Northeast, West, South, and Hawaii.
The new FLiRT variants are responsible for the majority of new cases, contributing to a 16% increase in emergency-department visits.
California is experiencing a notable rise in positive test rates and hospitalizations, particularly in the Bay Area.
Experts highlight the importance of updated vaccinations, especially for seniors and immunocompromised individuals.
Despite the uptick, hospitalization and death rates remain relatively low compared to previous surges.