---------------------------------------------------
This summer, COVID-19 is very much still a risk for many—even if you're generally healthy, doctors warn.
"Nearly everyone remains at some risk of a severe COVID infection," Dr. Michael Mina, MD, Ph.D., chief medical officer of Invivyd, tells Parade. "However, those with the highest risk include the very young, older individuals, and immune-compromised individuals who cannot or do not mount appropriate immune responses to protect themselves against the virus. The immune-compromised population is varied and can include those who have autoimmune disorders or cancer, those who have had a recent organ transplant and those with cardiac, renal or liver diseases. Immune-compromised people are particularly at risk for severe COVID-19."
Dr. Kyle Hoedebecke, MD, MBA, MPA, MS, FAAFP, CPE, clinical advisor of Alpas Wellness NOVA, concurs, explaining, "As has been the case since the beginning of this pandemic, the groups at greatest risk for severe illness from COVID-19 are older adults, people with compromised immune systems, pregnant patients and people with pre-existing conditions (e.g., heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, obesity)."
That comprises a lot of people, so even if you're generally fine, you'll likely want to take at least some precautions to protect others who need it. Find out the most common COVID-19 symptoms in July 2026, plus why there are unique challenges right now in terms of staying healthy in the face of the pandemic that never really ended.
What Are the Most Common COVID-19 Symptoms in July 2026?
The most common COVID symptoms this month are the ones you're used to hearing about, experts tell Parade: You can expect some combination of a persistent dry cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, fever, chills, fatigue and body aches, and a lucky few will also have the added delights of gastrointestinal issues (typically diarrhea, vomiting and/or nausea).
"Loss of taste and smell is less common than it was during earlier waves," Dr. Lora shares. "Vascular phenomena, such as 'COVID toes,' are also less frequently seen. Due to higher levels of immunity in the population, we also see fewer patients developing severe respiratory symptoms early in the course of illness compared with the beginning of the pandemic."
That is a relief, right? However, there are some important elements to consider now that you may not have before in terms of the level of COVID risk with which you're comfortable, because now, you may be sicker for longer and also at higher risk of cognitive impairment (which could be potentially longer term if you get long COVID).
"In terms of population health, it's not as much about the severity of the symptoms of COVID-19 changing in 2026 as it is about the next generation of Omicron variants' ability to cause repeated infections," Dr. Ayesha Bryant, MD, MSPH, clinical advisor of Alpas Wellness, says. "Some patients are reporting fatigue, cognitive impairment and brain fog, GI issues and longer-than-expected recovery periods, but the most commonly reported symptoms remain in the upper respiratory tract."
What COVID Variants Are Most Prevalent Right Now?
Right now, we're seeing a lot of descendants of the Omicron variant, specifically XFG, NB.1.8.1 and other variants of the JN.1 lineage, Dr. Bryant says. Experts are a bit divided on whether or not that's a good thing.
On one hand, Dr. Lora notes, "While [Omicron variants] remain highly contagious, we have accumulated immunity from vaccination and past infections, helping reduce the severity of illness for many people."
On the other hand, Dr. Bryant warns that newer Omicron variants have shown a potential for repeated infections, and really—it sucks enough getting COVID once. Having it multiple times just seems cruel.
Does COVID Risk Go Down in the Summer?
Unfortunately, unlike flu and the common cold, which tend to peak in the months during which we're huddled up indoors in close quarters, COVID risk isn't reduced just because we're outside getting fresh air and extra vitamin D.
"While age and comorbidities are still strong predictors of severe disease regardless of the specific variant of SARS-CoV2, the warmer temperatures associated with summer may result in less time spent in enclosed areas where airborne pathogens are more likely to be transmitted," Dr. Bryant explains. "However, increased mobility during summer months via travel and larger social gatherings also increases opportunities for airborne pathogen transmission."
What's more, you'll want to stock up on COVID tests, because a lot of common COVID symptoms overlap with those of seasonal allergies—and if you're anything like me, grass pollen has been trying to kill you since March.
How Can I Protect Myself and Others From COVID-19?
Get vaccinated!
"While vaccines may not always prevent infection, they continue to provide important protection against severe illness, hospitalization and death," Dr. Lora urges. "Staying up to date remains especially important for high-risk individuals. The vaccine has also been shown to reduce the risk of complications after COVID-19, such as heart attacks or strokes."
"The most effective way to protect oneself from infection is through layering of protection, such as maintaining current vaccinations, testing for SARS-CoV-2 when experiencing symptoms, receiving antiviral therapy promptly if eligible and practicing additional caution around immunocompromised people," Dr. Bryant advises.
Dr. Hoedebecke agrees. "Regardless of seasonal activity level, using common sense practices to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses remains effective," he says. That means staying home when you're ill, improving air circulation through ventilation systems, wearing masks in high-risk environments, hand washing and using hand sanitizer as needed.
There's a Medication That Could Help Prevent Long COVID—but Most Doctors Aren't Prescribing It Yet
If you're a candidate for them, you'll want to grab some Paxlovid from your doctor, but even then, don't necessarily expect a miracle.
"The treatments available today are limited and researchers are working to develop new approaches and new classes of treatments," Dr. Mina tells Parade. "While certain antiviral medications such as Paxlovid remain on the market, many of their benefits have been shown in recent research by scientists to be significantly reduced since they were first introduced. Additional research has shown potential increases in rebound."
Dr. Mina recommends monoclonal antibody treatment if you can get it.
Other than that, experts recommend drinking a lot of water, getting a lot of rest and managing symptoms with over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen for fevers and aches, lozenges for sore throat and cough and decongestants for sinus congestion.
.jpg)
No comments:
Post a Comment