San Diego County is experiencing a significant spike in COVID-19 test positivity, with the latest seven-day rate reaching 20.5%—the second-highest since the pandemic began. This increase highlights that the virus still impacts the community heavily this summer, surpassing state and national averages.

Dr. Erik Berg, interim medical director of the county’s epidemiology and immunization services branch, notes that while it’s difficult to pinpoint a single cause due to the varied testing landscape, a rate above 20% is notably high. However, he emphasizes that this surge has not yet overwhelmed local hospitals, with significant health systems like Scripps Health and Sharp HealthCare reporting elevated but manageable patient numbers.

Still, with so much virus circulating, Dr. Berg warns that the risk is unevenly distributed, particularly for older adults and those with chronic conditions. The consequences can be severe in multi-generational households, where younger individuals may bring the virus home to more vulnerable family members.

Local health officials continue to recommend vaccinations and caution against complacency, especially in public spaces where masking has become less common. Despite anecdotal reports of increasing infections, many healthcare providers in the region have not reinstated mandatory masking, relying instead on solid recommendations.

Jill Morgan of Poway, who recently tested positive for COVID-19 along with 11 of her family members, expressed frustration over the relaxed approach to masking in healthcare settings. After undergoing lung surgery, she was especially cautious but still contracted the virus, leading her to advocate for stricter masking protocols in medical facilities.

While the county’s public health officer can mandate increased masking, the current stance remains aligned with state guidance, leaving masking decisions largely voluntary for healthcare providers.