Read, Watch or Listen

COVID-19 cases are rising again in California, driven by the new 'Stratus' subvariant. This summer surge, while less severe than previous peaks, is concerning health officials. Factors contributing to the increase include summer travel, indoor gatherings, waning immunity, and viral mutations. While the pandemic emergency is over, COVID-19 can still cause serious illness, especially in vulnerable populations. Vaccination rates remain low, further complicated by recent changes in CDC guidance and vaccine rollout delays. Experts recommend vaccination, particularly for high-risk individuals, and preventative measures like masking in public indoor spaces.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.