In this week's coronavirus update, the delta variant continues to spread in many parts of the country, resulting in a daily average akin to the level in January. Moderna states that a booster shot will likely be needed, as Americans lie to get a third shot. Lastly, we have updated nationwide and worldwide infection numbers for you.
U.S. Daily Covid Cases Surpass 124,000
As of August 6th, the daily number of new Covid cases in the U.S. was just over 124,000. The seven-day average was over 99,000. We haven't seen numbers like that since the beginning of February. America's cases had been steadily decreasing since the beginning of February, but the Delta variant changed that. The CDC estimates that the Delta variant is still responsible for 83% of infections in the United States.
Earlier, we reported that the U.S. may be following in the footsteps of the U.K due to similar vaccination levels. The Delta variant first appeared in the U.K back in late April and early May, ultimately causing a spike in cases similar to January 2021. At its highest peak in July, the UK reached just over 60,000 daily cases. That mirrored their numbers from early January. The good news is, the UK is on the decline once more.
Unfortunately, the U.S. seems to be following the UK's projection. We are currently at infection levels that we haven't seen since the beginning of February. If we continue to follow in the UK's footsteps, the U.S. could see daily infections surpass 200,000 as they did in early January. When the UK had its July peak, 67% of the population 18 and over was fully vaccinated. Presently in the United States, 61% 18 and over are fully vaccinated, but 70% have received at least one dose.
Studies indicate that the Delta variant is 50% more contagious than the Alpha, which is 50% more contagious than the original strand. The Delta variant is more contagious thanks to a series of mutations that enable it to invade cells easier and avoid antibodies.
The increase in infections has resulted in a shift in behavior around the country. New York City's Mayor, Bill de Blasio, announced that there will be a city-wide vaccine requirement to do anything indoors, such as dine or work out. Other cities are contemplating similar measures. Businesses around the county are requiring proof of vaccination before allowing customers in.
Moderna Advocates For A Booster Shot While Many Already Got One By Lying
Thursday, Moderna joined Pfizer in announcing that a Covid-19 booster shot will likely be needed before this winter. Moderna restated that their vaccine remains over 90% effective for at least six months, but there is uncertainty on just how long it provides protection. Due to the Delta variant and seasonal challenges from the winter weather, Moderna believes that there could be a rise in breakthrough cases. This is why they are advocating for a booster shot.
Current studies indicate that Moderna's booster shot results in strong antibody response to the variants, including Delta. Israel, France, and Germany have already announced that they plan on administering booster shots to their vulnerable populations.
The FDA has not approved any vaccine booster as of yet and stated back in July that boosters were not needed. Still, this has caused some 900 plus Americans to lie about their vaccination status, to get a third dose. As one person put it, "I’m not going to wait another six months to a year for them to recommend a third dose.”
Latest U.S. Numbers
Over the last two weeks, there has been a 111% increase in the cases, a 84% increase in the number of hospitalizations, and 89% increase in deaths. The delta variant makes up about 83% of all new cases in the U.S.
Several areas in the U.S. continue to have hot spots. Louisiana's cases have increased 91% over the last 14 days with 99 cases per 100,000. Florida's cases have increased 84% with 90 cases per 100,000. Arkansas' cases have increased by 40% with 78 cases per 100,000.
The CDC estimates that 166.2 million Americans are fully vaccinated. This accounts for 50.1% of the total population and 61% of adults 18 years and older. 58.5% of the total population (70.8% 18 and over) have received at least one dose.
If you are unvaccinated, below is a risk map of the U.S. based on testing data and current cases.
Latest Worldwide Covid Numbers
The number of Covid cases continues to increase around the world as well. Cases have increased by 13% to just over 606,000 cases on a daily average. Deaths have thankfully decreased by 8%.
Countries around the world are continuing to have spikes in cases. Countries with the highest level of cases per capita are the Isle of Man with 170 cases per 100,000, Fiji, with 105 cases per 100,000, and Botswana with 99 cases per 100,000.
If you are traveling anytime soon, be sure to check out the appropriate travel requirements. We track each country's testing and vaccination requirements for you, so you don't have to.
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