COVID levels in California

The latest data indicates a mixed trend in COVID-19 cases across the United States, with infections rising in 27 states as summer concludes. Notably, California shows signs of a slowdown in its COVID surge, with wastewater data reflecting a decrease in the virus's presence, while daily deaths have increased from seven to 15. Conversely, Nova Scotia has reported a significant spike in cases, with a 300% increase in outbreaks at long-term care facilities, leading to a total of 245 COVID-related deaths for the 2023-24 reporting period. Michigan's COVID rates remain lower than in other states, with a moderate increase in cases, while higher infection rates are reported in neighboring regions. The CDC has identified the KP.3.1.1 variant as a predominant strain, contributing to increased transmissibility, despite not being more deadly. As the Labor Day weekend approaches, COVID activity remains elevated, particularly in the South, with ongoing monitoring of wastewater data revealing high levels of the virus.