Currently, several viruses are circulating and causing illness:
- COVID-19: There is a surge in COVID-19 cases driven mainly by variants called Nimbus (NB.1.8.1) and Stratus (XFG), both descendants of the Omicron strain. The "Stratus" variant is notable but considered a low public health risk, while Nimbus accounts for over a third of U.S. cases. COVID-19 activity is rising in most states, with moderate activity detected in wastewater surveillance.
- Influenza (the flu): Flu remains active this season with some severe strains circulating. Seasonal influenza activity is elevated across the country.
- Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV): RSV activity is high, especially affecting young children, but also adults can be impacted.
- Norovirus: A highly contagious stomach virus causing vomiting and diarrhea. A new strain (GII.17) is linked to recent outbreak surges.
- Adenoviruses: Cause cold or flu-like symptoms, bronchitis, pneumonia, conjunctivitis, and gastroenteritis. Spread year-round.
- Rhinoviruses: Cause the common cold and are common triggers for asthma. These peak in spring and late summer/fall.
- Measles, MERS-CoV, Nipah virus, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, dengue, West Nile Virus, chikungunya virus, and others are monitored but less prominent currently.
Thus, the main viruses currently spreading widely include COVID-19 (Nimbus and Stratus variants), flu, RSV, norovirus, adenoviruses, and rhinoviruses. These cause respiratory illnesses, stomach illness, and other symptoms. Vaccination and hygiene remain key preventive measures. This overview reflects global and U.S. trends in August 2025. Symptoms to watch include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, vomiting, and diarrhea among others. If you experience illness, especially severe or persistent symptoms, consult healthcare providers. If you want more detailed info about symptoms or prevention or specific regional outbreaks, I can provide that as well.
