If you’ve heard that COVID-19 is creeping up again, we heard it too, so Erie News Now decided to check on the latest data.
Here’s what we found on national and local trends — and who should get the latest COVID vaccine.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently reported that COVID-19 infections were growing in 27 states, declining in 13 and holding steady in 10.
Here in Erie County, Lauren Mathis, an epidemiology researcher with the Erie County, PA Department of Health, says wastewater testing showed COVID-19 activity had increased locally, but the trend is already moving back down.
“We are seeing cases,” Mathis said. “We believe this to just be the summer surge, and our winter surge is still looming.”
Mathis said the typical winter surge begins in late November and can continue throughout the colder months.
The newest COVID-19 vaccine became available this month, and Mathis says it is a good match for the variant currently circulating.
“Data’s showing that it is a good match,” Mathis said. “The XFG variant is still what we’re seeing circulating, and that’s what the formulation of this 2026-27 vaccine was based on.”
The updated vaccine is available through pharmacies, doctors’ offices and clinics.
Mathis said COVID vaccination is recommended for adults 65 and older, as well as people ages 6 months through 64 who have an underlying condition.
She recommends talking with a health care provider to determine what’s appropriate for each person or child.
“It is being recommended for adults 65 and older as well as those 6 months to 64 years if you have an underlying condition,” Mathis said. “But I do recommend you to have a conversation with your provider to see what’s best for you or your child when it comes to making a decision about getting vaccinated.”
Mathis said the Vaccines for Children has not yet rolled out the latest program for uninsured or underinsured children. Children with private insurance or whose families can pay out of pocket may still be able to receive the vaccine.
Health officials also recommend testing if you develop respiratory symptoms so you know whether COVID-19 may be responsible. If your COVID-19 test comes back positive, wear a mask, and avoid close contact with others and public exposures.
If you have COVID-19, stay home until you are fever-free and your symptoms have resolved before returning to your normal activities.
On Monday the Erie County Health Department dashboard showed an up arrow for COVID, today it was down. To track the latest trends for local respiratory disease, click here.