COVID cases rising in 25 US States: How to stay safe during 2025's Summer Wave
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After months of low transmission, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that COVID is resurging due to fading immunity and the emergence of new variants, notably NB.1.8.1 – the Nimbus strain.
Historically, summer spikes follow holiday travel, indoor retreat during heatwaves, and increased social gatherings. While vaccines and treatments have greatly lowered severe outcomes, this renewed surge calls for the need for layered protection.
What's driving the 2025 summer wave?
As the CDC reports, rising infections are occurring in about half of the states in the United States of America, with 25 showing clear increases, particularly in Florida, Texas, and California, which is linked to declining immunity and fresh variants like NB.1.8.1 (Nimbus) and XFG.
Now,
NB.1.8.1 – the Nimbus strain
– is a dominant strain across 24–25 states. This strain, known for sore throat ('razor‑blade throat'), was first detected in March 2025.
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This particular strain has become the prevailing strain nationwide, known for its high transmissibility and causing sore and painful throats. However, the strain isn't linked to more severe illness.
On the other hand,
XFG and LP.8.1
, the other Omicron descendant variants are currently present at notable levels in wastewater samples.
Moreover, there's a twice-yearly seasonality pattern to note. Following emerging trends, COVID‑19 is settling into a biannual cycle – peaking in summer and winter.
Experts deduce, this likely results from viral evolution and immunity decay. Similar patterns have been observed since 2020, driven by a mix of behavioral changes and viral adaptation.
Additionally, summer heat leads people indoors, where air conditioning tends to reduce ventilation and raise transmission risk. Topping that, post-holiday travel and gatherings, especially around July 4, have historically fueled seasonal spikes.
All of which explains the steep surge in infections.
How to stay safe during the 2025 summer wave:
Although infections are rapidly surging across US states, the summer wave of COVID-19 has mostly mild to moderate symptoms. Hospitalizations and deaths remain lower compared to earlier pandemic peaks. However, people who are aged 65+, immunocompromised, pregnant, and with chronic illness – continue to face elevated risk.
Moreover, long COVID, which is an ongoing concern due to post-infection repercussions, such as fatigue and brain fog, is still reported, even after mild illness.
On the face of this summer 2025 wave, here are some tips on staying safe.
Vaccination and boosting:
Updated boosters are recommended, especially for older, immunocompromised, or those whose last dose was >6 months ago. Fall 2025 boosters matching recent variants will likely be available. It's advisable not to delay current doses while waiting.
Masks in high-risk settings:
Mask is a must. ALWAYS advocate for using masks (N95/KN95) indoors when crowded or poorly ventilated, such as transit, airports, and events.
Healthcare workers, caregivers, and those in contact with high-risk people must continue using masks.
Testing and isolation:
Keep rapid antigen tests at home. Test when symptoms emerge or after exposures. If positive, isolate for at least 5 days, and consider masking on days 6–10.
Ventilation and outdoor options:
Use fans, open windows, and HEPA filters to improve air circulation indoors. Opt for outdoor dining, events, or gatherings whenever feasible – instead of being cooped up indoors.
Hygiene and symptom vigilance:
Finally, go back to basics. Wash your hands frequently or use sanitizer. Avoid touching your face after contact with shared surfaces. Be alert to key symptoms, especially sore throat, fever, and fatigue, and act quickly.
How to Stay Safe During Summer Heat Waves
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