TEXAS — The number of COVID cases has typically risen in the fall and winter months. But right now, half of the country is experiencing a summer surge. 

What You Need To Know

  • While the pandemic has passed, much of the country has experienced a surge in COVID-19 cases over the summer

  • Dr. Jason Bowling with University Health in San Antonio says booster shots and immunity from previous infections is wearing off 

  • The FDA recently approved updated COVID vaccines which should be widely available in September. With fall and winter virus season quickly approaching, Bowling suggest everyone get vaccinated

  • You can find COVID-19 testing sites by using the locater on the CDC’s website

“My role here is to prevent infections that are preventable,” said Dr. Jason Bowling.

Bowling is the chief epidemiologist at University Health in San Antonio. When it comes to COVID-19, he says the global pandemic is over. We’ve now transitioned into an endemic. 

“It’s something that we see constantly. Throughout the year we see increases and decreases in activity,” Bowling said. “So it something that we’re learning to live with.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says COVID cases are rising in 27 states.

“It’s really hot outside so people are gathered together indoors,” Bowling said. “People travel a lot during the summer, so they’re going to different areas, getting exposed, bringing it back home.”

Bowling says immunity from previous COVID infections and booster shots are wearing off. With cases on the rise, the Biden administration announced households will be able to order four free COVID tests at the end of September. 

“The current recommendation if you have COVID-19, CDC wants people to stay home until they’ve had no fever for at least 24 hours and their symptoms are getting better,” Bowling said. “But to still wear a mask when they’re going outside the house from five days from [when] their symptoms started.”

The FDA recently approved updated COVID vaccines which should be widely available in September. With fall and winter virus season quickly approaching, Bowling suggest everyone get vaccinated.

“We want everyone to get the updated COVID vaccine,” he said. “Both flu and COVID can cause significant infections, can lead to people being in the hospital if they’re at risk for significant illness.”

If you do test positive for COVID, consult with a physician about taking Paxlovid. Bowling says it’s a good treatment option, especially for those who are high risk. Although many of us ditched our face mask years ago, he says it may be something to reconsider as infections rise.

“Masks are still an effective tool for preventing infections,” Bowling said. “Some people are at really high risk of getting more severe infections with COVID-19, flu and other respiratory viruses.” 

Symptomatic folks who are uninsured qualify for free COVID test. You can find COVID-19 testing sites by using the locater on the CDC’s website.