SAVANNAH, Ga. () – A doctor from Memorial Health explained that the slight rise in COVID-19 cases is attributed to the start of the school year and the hot weather, which has led more people to remain indoors.

“We definitely observe cases primarily in two age groups: individuals in their seventies and eighties, and young children,” said Internal Medicine Physician Timothy Connelly.

Connelly noted that this increase was anticipated. He mentioned that COVID-19 cases are significantly lower compared to this time last year, decreasing from about 3,000 in 2024 to roughly 1,000 this year.

He told that right now, 10 people are hospitalized with the virus.

“With that new stratus strain of COVID, people get very, very sore throat,” Connelly said. “They say it’s like swallowing razor blades.

He added, “we do have a few people that are still having respiratory COVID.”

He emphasized that the most severe cases are predominantly found in individuals who have not been vaccinated, but added that current treatments are much more effective than they were during the peak of the pandemic.

“We expect case numbers to decline from here, especially as the weather improves, with more people spending time outdoors. This reduces close contact and shared air conditioning,” he said. “While a significant rise in COVID-19 cases is not anticipated in the near future, it remains a possibility.”

 Connelly said when it comes to preventing COVID, the basics still work.

“Proper handwashing is crucial,” he remarked. “Although masking is only marginally effective in limiting spread, I advise people who are unwell and must be in public to wear a mask as a courtesy to others.”

Doctors are also warning that fewer people getting flu shots may also lead to a tougher flu season.

The Food and Drug Administration has approved updated COVID vaccines for the upcoming fall and winter seasons but is restricting their use. If you are not a senior, you won’t be able to get them unless you have an underlying health problem.