The United States is experiencing a fresh wave of COVID-19 infections.
Experts are concerned that current surveillance systems may underestimate the true extent of the problem.
Anecdotal evidence suggests widespread transmission despite lower official statistics.
Health officials and epidemiologists emphasize the need for vigilance.
Weekly hospital admissions have nearly doubled in the past month.
Hospitals have adjusted testing practices, making data comparisons challenging.
Mask mandates have been reinstated in schools, hospitals, and communities.
Unvaccinated individuals and those with underlying health conditions are at higher risk.
Emerging variants, EG.6 (Eris) and BA.2.86 (Pirola), are being monitored, with EG.5 (Eris) labeled as a "variant of interest" by the World Health Organization.