Topline
Coronavirus deaths are at the highest level in almost a year in the U.S. amid signs that the wave of infections fueled by the omicron variant may be cresting.
Key Facts
The seven-day rolling average of Covid-19 deaths was at 2,188 Tuesday, according to Johns Hopkins University, up 23% from a week ago.
It’s the highest number recorded by Johns Hopkins since February 17, 2021, before vaccines were widely distributed (At that time, only about 14% of U.S. residents had at least one dose and 6% were fully vaccinated).
The current seven-day average of deaths is also higher than during the surge late last year fueled by the delta variant, when the seven-day moving average peaked on September 15, at 1,924, according to the CDC.
The seven-day average is still below the pandemic peak of 3,422 lives lost a day recorded by the CDC on January 13, 2021.
The seven-day rolling average for new infections stood at 663,908 on Sunday, per the CDC, more than double the highest figure recorded during the early 2021 surge, but down 19% from January 16.
Key Background
Studies suggest the omicron variant, which now makes up the vast majority of new infections in the U.S., is more contagious but less deadly than previous strains. Intensive care units have been placed under strain amid the rising cases. More than 77% of the nation’s hospital beds were occupied on Tuesday, one fifth of which were being used by coronavirus patients. More than 76% of the population has received at least one vaccine dose, and more than 63% have both. One of every four Americans has also received a booster.
Further Reading
‘Dangerous’ To Assume Omicron Is Covid Pandemic’s Final Stage, World Health Organization Warns (Forbes)
U.S. Covid-19 Deaths For 2021 Surpass Toll From 2020 (Forbes)
Covid Pressure Rises In U.S. ICUs — These Are The Hardest-Hit States (Forbes)
