Opinion: Confronting the Largest COVID Surge Since Omicron – Questioning the Reality We Choose to Embrace

Summary:

The JN.1 variant, a derivative of BA.2.86, emerges as the second-largest wave of Covid infections in the U.S., surpassing Omicron. Wastewater analysis suggests around 2 million daily infections. The XBB.1.5 booster shows 60% protection against JN.1, yet only 19% have received it. The rise coincides with flu and RSV waves, but public resistance to masks persists. Urgent action is needed, with new nasal vaccines showing promise.

Based on an article by Eric Topal

Main Points:

JN.1 variant becomes the second-largest Covid wave in the U.S., with around 2 million daily infections.
XBB.1.5 booster offers 60% protection against JN.1, but only 19% of eligible Americans have received it.
Flu and RSV waves add to the challenges, with some experiencing dual infections.
Despite the surge, public reluctance to adopt masks remains evident.
Urgent action needed, as new nasal vaccines show promise against variants.

Amidst the surge of the JN.1 variant, with 2 million daily infections and the XBB.1.5 booster offering vital protection, our battle against Covid demands urgent action. Public resistance to masks persists, emphasizing the need for a collective effort to overcome this relentless pandemic..
Long Covid The Answers

The U.S. faces a significant Covid resurgence with the JN.1 variant surpassing Omicron. Wastewater analysis suggests approximately 2 million daily infections. The XBB.1.5 booster shows 60% protection against JN.1, but only 19% have received it. Public resistance to masks persists amidst concurrent flu and RSV waves. Urgent action is essential, with new nasal vaccines demonstrating promise against variants.