A new wave of COVID-19 is sweeping across California, prompting health officials to recommend residents take greater precautions, including masking up in indoor public settings. The state is experiencing a continued rise in both confirmed cases and hospitalizations, with wastewater data showing high levels of the coronavirus.

Key Data Points and Rising Concerns 

Data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that California has "high" coronavirus levels in its sewage, and the virus is "growing" or "likely growing" in 30 states. The West has the highest levels of coronavirus in wastewater in the entire country.

The percentage of lab tests coming back positive has also climbed sharply. For the week ending August 23, the statewide positive test rate was 12.07%, a significant jump from 6.03% a month earlier. Los Angeles, Orange, and San Francisco counties all reported similar increases, with Orange County's rate hitting 18.1%.

"California is experiencing a summer COVID wave," said Dr. Aimee Sisson, the health officer for Yolo County. While overall COVID hospital admissions remain "low," they are increasing. The rate of 3.62 hospital admissions per 100,000 residents for the week ending August 23 is higher than the winter peak. Emergency room visits for COVID-like symptoms are also up in several counties.

Masking and Vaccination Recommendations 

In response to the surge, local health officials are issuing new guidance. Dr. Sisson of Yolo County is recommending that residents in areas with "high" viral levels in wastewater, such as West Sacramento, wear masks in indoor public spaces. In other parts of the county with "medium" viral levels, she advises masking for individuals who are 65 or older, have a weakened immune system, or are otherwise at a greater risk of severe illness.

"Wearing a high-quality mask such as an N95, KN95, or KF94 that fits well continues to provide strong protection," Sisson stated. The San Francisco Department of Public Health is also encouraging residents to consider masking in crowded indoor settings and to stay home when sick.

Amid the rising case numbers, frustration is growing over new federal guidelines for COVID-19 vaccination. The updated 2025-26 vaccine is expected to become available soon, but new rules issued by the Trump administration may create "real access barriers" for younger, healthy individuals. Former Surgeon General Dr. Jerome Adams criticized the requirement for healthy people under 65 to consult with a healthcare provider before getting the shot, calling the new policy a barrier to access.

This policy change comes from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), led by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has previously expressed skepticism about vaccines. While other health experts say further testing of COVID vaccines is unnecessary given their proven track record, Kennedy has called for more studies.

"Vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to prevent severe disease and death from COVID-19," Sisson emphasized, highlighting the continued importance of getting vaccinated to combat the virus.

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