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Aug. 3, 2023, 3:14 p.m.

Rising COVID hospitalizations point to summer surge in infections

Summary

Signs point to a COVID-19 summer surge for the fourth consecutive year. Overall, infections remain much lower compared to the past, but cases began increasing last month and between 300 and 400 Americans are dying each week. John Yang discussed the growing concerns with epidemiologist Dr. Katelyn Jetelina.

For a transcript of this story, click here

News wrap alternative: Check out recent segments from the NewsHour, and choose the story you’re most interested in watching. You can make a Google doc copy of discussion questions that work for any of the stories here.

Five Facts

  1. When were recorded COVID deaths last this low?
  2. Who is at the most risk from COVID?
  3. How much did COVID hospital emissions go up during the week of July 22?
  4. Why do we not know yet who will be eligible for the next vaccine?
  5. Where does Katelyn Jetelina work?
  6. What medication does only one in four nursing home residents get during a COVID infection?

Focus Questions

What interventions do you think public institutions like schools should continue to take — if any — to prevent the spread of COVID?

News Analysis: How do you think the media should approach ongoing cases of COVID? 

Alternative: See, Think, Wonder: What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What story would you want to find out more about? Where would you go to learn more?

For More

What students can do: Research and discuss — what is the spread of COVID like at the moment in your own community? Is it mentioned in the media? Do you continue to talk about it at home or with others?

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