Increase in Children's Doctor Visits, but Severe Cases are Few — The Current Reality of COVID and Autumn Vaccines

In the United States, COVID-19 infections are on the rise again as of August 2025. Although immunity has spread compared to five years ago, leading to limited severe cases, there are concerns about a relative increase in children visiting the ER. The issue at hand is the status of the updated vaccines for the fall. The FDA's approval and the CDC's advisory meetings are expected to take place after mid-September, and there is a high possibility that approval will be narrowed to high-risk groups such as those aged 65 and older or individuals with underlying conditions. The predominant XFG (commonly known as "Stratus") is a derivative of the JN.1 lineage, and it is likely that the vaccine's effectiveness will be maintained. In Texas, wastewater monitoring indicates that activity is "very high," and while influenza and RSV levels are low, COVID-19 is on the rise. On social media, practical discussions such as "N95 and ventilation" and "Should we wait until fall?" are mixed with distrust in policies and general fatigue. High-risk groups are considering additional doses of the current vaccine, and overall, it is wise to continue basic measures such as wearing masks, ensuring ventilation, and avoiding crowded places.