Story perspectives

COVID-19 Cases Surge in Southern U.S. Amid Travel

8/29/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The U.S. is seeing a late summer increase in COVID-19 cases, especially in Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas, with 15% positivity rates.
Wastewater monitoring shows high virus activity, but at-home testing may lead to underreporting.
Epidemiologists link the surge to summer travel and decreased immunity from prior vaccinations.
COVID-19 vaccine access may be restricted this year for younger adults and children.
A CDC panel will convene in September to review vaccination coverage.

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Story summary

The U.S. is seeing a late summer increase in COVID-19 cases, especially in Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas, with 15% positivity rates.
Wastewater monitoring shows high virus activity, but at-home testing may lead to underreporting.
Epidemiologists link the surge to summer travel and decreased immunity from prior vaccinations.
COVID-19 vaccine access may be restricted this year for younger adults and children.
A CDC panel will convene in September to review vaccination coverage.