Arizona COVID-19 Surge: Tips for Staying Healthy

COVID-19 Surge in Arizona

As summer temperatures rise across Arizona , the number of COVID-19 cases is also increasing . Experts attribute this surge to the high transmission rate of the KP.3 variant . According to Joel Terriquez , the Arizona Department of Public Health Services infectious disease and immunizations medical director , the state has reported a 76 % increase in positive COVID-19 cases compared to the same time last year . Arizona is currently seeing around 2,500 new positive cases per week , with a three - year average of 7,829 cases for the week of June 30.

The SARS - CoV-2 virus variant KP.3 , which is part of the FLiRT group , is on the rise in the U.S. and is active in Arizona . The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that 25 % of all COVID-19 cases in the U.S. are from the KP.3 variant . However , health experts believe that while KP.3 is highly transmissible , it does not cause severe illness for individuals with healthy immune systems.

Despite the reported number of positive COVID-19 cases in Arizona , health authorities believe that the actual number is higher due to underreporting . Nick Staab , assistant medical director for the Maricopa County Department of Public Health , mentioned that monitoring COVID-19 levels through wastewater testing has shown an increase in the virus regionally . This method allows for earlier detection of virus spread in the community compared to clinical testing.

In terms of symptoms associated with the KP.3 variant , individuals can experience typical COVID-19 symptoms such as fever , cough , fatigue , and more . Health professionals emphasize the importance of staying vigilant , especially for those who are immunocompromised or have underlying health conditions . Hospitalizations in the U.S. have increased by 13 % compared to the previous year , with COVID-19 - related deaths remaining relatively low.

Rise in COVID-19 Cases in Tucson

Health officials in Tucson are reminding the public that COVID-19 is still a concern , despite the decrease in cases over the past few years . There has been a recent uptick in COVID-19 cases , attributed to increased travel , gatherings , and shared food . Unlike the flu , COVID-19 does not show a seasonal pattern and can spread at any time of the year.

The Pima County Health Department has observed a rise in COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses during the summer months . Director Theresa Cullen highlighted the importance of following safety measures , especially for those who are immunocompromised . These measures include wearing masks , washing hands regularly , maintaining good ventilation , and monitoring for symptoms . It is crucial for individuals who are feeling unwell to stay home and avoid public spaces to prevent further virus transmission.