New coronavirus cases in the U.S. have dropped to pre-Thanksgiving levels, the head of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said Wednesday, and infection rates continue to decline.
“Now it looks like we’re on a consistent downward trajectory,” both for cases and for hospital admissions, CDC director Rochelle WalenskyRochelle Walensky The Hill’s Morning Report – Presented by Facebook – Biden, GOP senators begin talks; Demons advance health care overnight: White House awards 0M to increase test at home | Schumer promises the Senate will take on a “bold” coronavirus bill Biden officials defend two-dose strategy amid fears of variants Biden officials defend two-dose strategy amid fears of variants MORE told reporters during a briefing on the COVID-19 White House.
Cases have declined since it peaked on Jan. 8, falling 13.4 percent to an average of about 144,000 daily from Jan. 26 to Feb. 1, Walensky said.
Deaths continue to rise, but the pace is slowing. Fatalities are a lagging indicator, so it will be some time before they reflect lower infection and hospitalization rates.
“The recent decline in hospitalizations gives us hope that the death toll will start to decline in the coming weeks,” Walensky said.
The declining number of infections has led states and cities to begin removing some of the restrictions that have been in place since before the December holiday period, such as indoor food bans.
Despite relatively positive news, the number of infections remains twice as high as the maximum number of cases during the summer and the US continues to average more than 3,000 deaths a day.
Walensky warned Americans not to lower their guard, especially because variants that have likely increased transmissibility continue to multiply.
Experts say the best way to prevent the spread of variants is for people to follow basic public health precautions, such as avoiding large crowds, wearing masks and physically distancing themselves, as well as getting vaccinated as soon as possible.
Walensky specifically warned against people gathering inside in large groups for Super Bowl parties this weekend, saying people should meet virtually or with immediate members of the household.