The COVID-19 virus is coming back around the block, infecting many communities across the United States. 

Between travel bumps for end-of-summer holidays and the back-to-school season, experts have been concerned about another wave of viral cases. 

And the data is proving them right. 

The CDC reported that nationally, the wastewater viral activity level for COVID-19 is high and very high in 21 states as of the first week of September. There was also a spike in hospitalizations early in the month. 

Today, we’ll take a closer look at the state of COVID-19 activity across our country and provide tips to keep your home (and indoor air) healthy heading into the fall allergy season.

How To Track COVID-19 Cases 

The CDC has many ways to track the COVID-19 virus. One of the most reliable is testing sewage, or wastewater, as it can indicate early signs of viruses impacting a community. 

Test Wastewater for COVID-19 

Wastewater testing has long been an important method for disease outbreak control because it contains viral genetic material that can be detected, even if people aren’t exhibiting symptoms. 

By having this knowledge early, health officials can more reasonably predict an outbreak and take proactive steps to curb its impacts through interventions like increased testing, public health warnings, mask suggestions, vaccination campaigns, and more. Officials would also alert key players like clinicians, hospitals, and first responders so they are adequately prepared. 

Additionally, wastewater testing helps scientists observe trends in viral activity among communities over time. This knowledge can help us understand how diseases spread, when they’ll peak, and how long they’ll likely last.  

Who Collects This Data?

The National Wastewater Surveillance System (NWSS) collects and analyzes this data and updates it weekly through interactive dashboards. 

The data spans multiple viruses and bacteria, including:

• SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19)
• Influenza A
• Mpox

Analyze Positive COVID-19 Test Results & Other Severity Indicators

Wastewater certainly isn’t the only way to test for the spread of COVID-19; positive tests are another. 

Positive tests are confirmation that the disease is present in certain communities. Public health officials can use this data to make further recommendations for disease management, to contain the spread, and to increase communication concerning health best practices.  

The CDC also tracks emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and deaths to further contextualize the state and severity of the disease. 

The State of COVID-19 In The U.S. 

Viral activity for COVID-19 is classified as “high” for the entire country, with the middle belt and Northwest experiencing “very high” virality levels as of September 5, 2024. 

*Source: CDC wastewater viral activities U.S map. 

COVID-19 Wastewater Trends

Though wastewater contamination for COVID-19 is lower than it was a year ago, data for late August and early September 2024 still slots the nation into “very high” contamination levels. We can also see the numbers sharply trending upwards after hitting a low point this past spring, which displays early signs of a potential spread. 

Source: CDC - Wastewater National & Regional Trends

COVID-19 Testing Trends 

In the COVID data tracker, the CDC updates the percentage of positive tests twice weekly on Mondays and Fridays. For the week of September 1 through September 7, total test positivity was recorded at 14.9%—a decrease from 16.5% during the last week of August.  

COVID-19 Variant Trends 

The CDC has a Nowcast Data Tracker, which provides projections in two-week periods, including variant proportions. Based on this data, the KP.3.1.1 variant will likely be responsible for 52.7% of all cases. 

How To Protect Your Home as COVID-19 Cases Rise

As we navigate another potential wave of COVID-19, it's crucial to focus on creating a haven within your home. While public health measures are essential, individual actions to protect your living space can significantly reduce the risk of infection. Let's explore some effective strategies to keep your home environment clean and healthy.

Clean Regularly

Frequent cleaning is your primary defense against any virus. Pay special attention to high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, countertops, and electronic devices. These areas can harbor viruses and should be cleaned daily.

For thorough cleaning, consider using a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter. These filters can capture tiny particles, including some viruses, helping reduce your home's overall viral load.

Sanitize After High-Risk Activities

After engaging in activities that might increase exposure risk—such as traveling, attending school, or participating in large group events—it's wise to perform a more thorough sanitization of your home.

Focus on:

• Entryway areas where outdoor items are stored
• Bathrooms
• Frequently touched surfaces in common areas

Use EPA-approved disinfectants and follow the instructions for proper application and contact time.

Improve Indoor Air Quality

While surface cleaning is important, don't overlook the air you breathe. Improving indoor air quality can play a significant role in reducing the transmission of airborne viruses like COVID-19.

Air purifiers are an excellent tool for enhancing air quality. These devices pull air through a series of filters that can capture a wide range of particles, including viruses and bacteria.

Choosing the Right Air Purifier for Viruses and Bateria

When you’re looking for the best air purifier for viruses and bacteria, consider ones with the following technical characteristics: 

• Medical-grade HEPA filter
• Carbon filter
• Bi-polar ionization
• Silver microbial filter
• High Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) score 
• CARB-compliance

It’s also important to consider the size of your space, noise operation, and energy efficiency. 

Air Oasis offers a range of air purifiers designed to effectively remove viruses, bacteria, and other pollutants from your home's air. Our products combine true HEPA filtration with other advanced technologies, like bi-polar ionization, to provide effective air cleaning solutions. In fact, our iAdaptAir 2.0 series reduces up to 99% of bacteria and viruses. 

Additional Air Quality Tips for a Healthier Home

Improving indoor air quality can make your home a more comfortable and safer place to live. Here are some additional ways to achieve this goal:

• Ensure Proper Ventilation: Open windows to allow fresh air circulation. It’s always important to remain mindful of your area. For example, September is infamous for increased seasonal asthma and wildfires, so only open windows as air quality levels and your health permit.  
• Control Indoor Humidity: A study by MIT found that maintaining indoor humidity levels between 40-60% was associated with lower rates of COVID-19 infections.
• Replace Filters Regularly: Whether in your HVAC system or standalone air purifier, replace filters as recommended to ensure optimal performance.

Clear The Air of COVID-19

As we face another potential rise in COVID-19 cases, taking proactive steps to protect your home environment is more important than ever. Regular cleaning, strategic sanitization, and improving indoor air quality through the use of air purifiers can significantly reduce your risk of exposure.

Remember, creating a healthier home is an ongoing process. Stay informed about local COVID-19 trends, follow public health guidelines, and continue to prioritize the air quality in your living space. With these measures in place, you can create a safer, healthier environment for you and your loved ones as we navigate seasonal viral challenges.