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CDC map shows COVID-19 hotspots in US states as mask becomes mandatory
COVID-19 cases surge in US regions, CDC map reveals worst-affected areas.
As COVID-19 cases surge in various U.S. regions, a map sourced from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) sheds light on the worst-affected areas. With hospital authorities recommending mask mandates, here's what you need to know:
Hotspots on the map:
The Midwest and Northeast are witnessing a notable rise in COVID-19 infections, prompting concerns. The CDC's map highlights areas with alarming case numbers, urging vigilance.
Return of mask mandates:
Hospitals in California, Illinois, Massachusetts, New York, and Washington D.C. are re-implementing mask mandates as the flu season heightens respiratory illness risks. The move aims to curb the spread of COVID-19.
Trouble in 'Region Seven':
'Region Seven,' comprising Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, and Nebraska, tops the list with 18.3% positive COVID-19 tests in the week leading up to December 23. This region saw a slight uptick of 0.1% in positivity.
Concerns in 'Region Five':
Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin form 'Region Five,' where positivity rates slightly decreased by 0.1%, but a significant 14.8% of tests returned positive results.
Hospital mandates in action:
Healthcare systems like Mass General Brigham in Massachusetts are enforcing mask mandates for staff in direct patient contact until COVID-19 rates subside. Similar measures are in place at MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital in Washington D.C. and NYC Health + Hospitals.
State-level advisories:
The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has advised healthcare facilities to intensify mitigation efforts. Yolo County, California, recommends mask use in crowded indoor spaces due to elevated COVID-19 and respiratory virus levels.
Also Read | CDC recommends updated COVID-19 vaccine for all, here's how you can get it
CDC's hospital admissions map:
Another CDC map displays high rates of hospital admissions from Idaho to New England, reaching as far south as Texas. Approximately 7.36% of the U.S. exhibits high levels of hospital admissions per 100,000 people.
Some challenges arise in assessing hospitalizations due to low populations in certain areas. For instance, Lemhi County, Idaho, has a small population, but the CDC considers it to have a high rate of COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 people.
