The U.S. CDC is sounding the alarm as the new COVID-19 variant LB.1 fuels a fresh wave of infections nationwide. Cases are climbing faster than a viral TikTok dance 🕺—with test positivity rates jumping to 6.6% this week, up from 5.4% just days ago.
Dubbed “LB.1” by health experts, this offshoot of the Omicron family is showing heightened transmissibility, though early data suggests vaccines still offer protection against severe outcomes. “We’re monitoring trends closely,” the CDC noted, urging at-risk groups to consider mask use in crowded spaces.
While hospitalizations remain below pandemic peaks, the uptick has sparked debates about summer travel plans and back-to-school safety. 🎒✈️ Pro tip: Keep those rapid tests handy and stay updated on booster eligibility—your future self might thank you!
