2025 Covid-19 Is Back as a Variant. What to Know About Shots, Trends, Protecting Your Family..NEW

COVID-19 Update - as of August 31, 2025.

Los Angeles County
COVID-19 activity is increasing. Test positivity rose to 12.6% for the week ending August 16, up from 7.6% a month earlier. Wastewater levels have jumped, and hospitalizations, while rising, remain about half the level seen last year. The XFG subvariant, known as “Stratus,” is currently dominant in the region.

California (Statewide)
COVID-19 activity is rising across the state. Statewide test positivity reached 11.6% during the week ending August 16, up from 5.7% a month earlier. Emergency room visits for children and seniors are also increasing. This summer’s wave mirrors seasonal patterns, though less severe than last year’s peak.

United States Overall
Cases are climbing across much of the country. The Southwest, including California, shows the highest test positivity at 12.5%. Wastewater data indicates increasing viral levels nationwide, with activity shifting from “very low” to “medium.” Multiple states are experiencing a similar seasonal surge.

Japan
Japan has reported a ninth consecutive week of rising cases, with 22,288 new cases for the week ending August 17. The weekly average per medical facility is 6.3 cases, compared with 6.13 the previous week. This remains lower than the same time in 2024, but cases are steadily increasing. The latest variant under monitoring has not shown increased severity.

What You Can Do Now
• Vaccination remains the best defense. The new 2025-26 COVID-19 vaccines have been approved but are currently prioritized for seniors and high-risk individuals. Others may still be eligible with a prescription or clinical consultation.
• Timing: Vaccines are being shipped now and should be available at pharmacies shortly. The best time to get vaccinated is early fall through winter.
• Masking: Wear a well-fitting mask (N95/KF94) in crowded indoor spaces.
• Ventilation: Improve airflow indoors to reduce risk.
• Stay Home if Ill: Limit contact if you feel unwell.
• Follow Local Guidance: Check updates from local health authorities for the latest recommendations.

Summary
• Los Angeles County - Increasing, driven by the Stratus variant, wastewater spike, and rising positivity.
• California (Statewide) - Rising, fueled by seasonal wave patterns, waning immunity, and more indoor gatherings.
• United States Overall - Moderate rise, with a summer surge and continued variant spread.
• Japan - Increasing, with nine consecutive weeks of growth that remain moderate but sustained.