COLUMBUS, Ohio — Over the past four years, COVID-19 has changed and mutated significantly from the initial cases seen in the U.S.

What You Need to Know

• The latest COVID-19 variant, FLiRT, is behind the recent rise in cases.

• Officials attribute the spike to more frequent summer gatherings.

• To keep you and your family safe, follow CDC guidelines like handwashing, masking, and social distancing.

COVID 19 surge in COVID cases amid summer travel and activities

COVID-19 cases have risen by about 27% in Ohio compared to a few weeks ago. However, Dr. Joseph Khabbaza from the Cleveland Clinic reassures that communities shouldn’t be too worried since the initial numbers were relatively low. Current data from the Ohio Department of Health shows just over 3.7 million cases statewide.

Ohioans are familiar with these summer spikes. According to Khabbaza, unlike the cold and flu, COVID-19 doesn’t have a specific peak season. Instead, it comes in waves throughout the year. As a critical care physician at the Cleveland Clinic, Khabbaza sees about one to two patients daily. While most symptoms are mild, COVID-19 remains a challenging infection.

“In the outpatient setting, we're not seeing people getting very sick,” said Khabbaza. “These recent spikes and variants haven’t caused severe illness, which is good news. However, it’s still not predictable like other seasonal viruses.”

Mark Cameron, an infectious disease researcher at Case Western Reserve University, attributes the spike to increased travel and gatherings during the summer. He suggests that new variants or infections brought by travelers from other countries spread at large events like festivals and concerts. While these summer spikes aren’t a major concern, Cameron warns they could hint at what’s to come later in the year.

“As people return to campus and fall activities, we might see another rise in cases,” said Cameron. “By late September and October, we typically see the start of the cold and flu season. These summer variants can influence the cold and flu season.”

The CDC offers guidelines to protect yourself during this wave of cases:

• Get your latest COVID booster shot to cover new variants and mutations.

• Maintain good hygiene by washing your hands for at least 20 seconds and disinfecting surfaces.

• Test yourself since COVID variants can resemble a cold or the flu.

• Wear a mask when out or at gatherings.

You can always contact your healthcare provider to schedule your booster shot or visit your local pharmacy.