The CDC reports that about half of the United States, including Maryland, have 'very high' amounts of COVID-19 virus identified in wastewater collections, signals to health officials that viral activity is rising.
Rising Hospitalizations
Hospitalizations for COVID-19 in Maryland have increased significantly since May, with data showing at least 245 individuals hospitalized as of the report date, compared to just 38 in May.
County Executive's Concerns
Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich expressed concern over the rising hospitalizations, suggesting that community members must think of vulnerable populations such as the elderly.
Increasing COVID-19 Cases
The Maryland Department of Health noted an increase in daily COVID-19 cases, rising from an average of 111 to nearly 398 cases per day by August.
COVID-19 as an Endemic Virus
Experts agree that COVID-19 has settled into endemicity, indicating that while it remains a concern, the healthcare response has improved, thus reducing the severity of outbreaks.
Mortality Rates
COVID-19 is still causing fatalities, with 26 deaths reported in Maryland for August, but overall mortality rates are considerably lower than during peak pandemic periods.
Normalization of COVID-19
Professionals argue that COVID-19 is becoming more normalized in society, with similar public health measures to that of seasonal flu, although vigilant hygiene practices are still recommended.
