Several western US states are experiencing a surge in COVID-19 infections, with wastewater data showing "high" levels in Alaska, California, Colorado, Nevada, and Utah. Nationwide, COVID-19 activity in wastewater has risen to "moderate." The increase coincides with the rise of the XFG variant and follows a pattern of summer spikes, though the severity remains uncertain. Concerns are heightened by the termination of federal contracts for mRNA vaccines. Experts caution that it's too early to predict the wave's extent.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.