A relatively light COVID-19 holiday season may be on the horizon for the US, thanks to a predictable pattern of viral spread. After a minimal November, infection rates have started to tick up, but remain below those of past Decembers. Projections suggest three times fewer people will catch COVID-19 this year compared to previous years.
A long-lasting summer COVID-19 wave has left around 25% of the US population with relatively fresh immunity, making them less susceptible to infection. Additionally, there haven’t been many worrisome new variants in recent months, further reducing transmission risk.
While current data indicate a smaller-than-usual winter wave, holiday travel and gatherings will likely fuel an uptick in cases. Influenza, RSV, and the common cold are also on the rise this season, making it essential to take precautions beyond COVID-19 measures. Wearing masks, washing hands regularly, and staying home when ill can minimize transmission of all respiratory viruses.
Getting an updated COVID-19 shot is crucial now, as vaccines offer better protection against severe disease and death than infection blocking. With viral spread likely to increase, getting vaccinated “right now” is ideal timing according to experts.
Source: https://time.com/7203014/covid-19-rates-winter-2024-2025