What does COVID look like now? New variant, milder infections, fewer deaths
As of early 2026, COVID-19 has fallen out of the top 10 causes of death in the state.
Yet, a new variant has just surfaced in the U.S., known as BA.3.2, appearing in wastewater samples from 25 states including Florida, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It carries 70 to 75 mutations and may evade existing immunity.
The vaccines have been updated over time, with the most recent in the fall of 2025. While they don’t prevent COVID, the vaccines continue to provide protection — about 50% against emergency room visits and hospitalization, according to epidemiologist Katelyn Jetelina. Experts acknowledge that vaccine protection still wanes over time, dropping to roughly 18% at roughly four months. After much debate, the CDC recommends COVID-19 vaccines for people ages 6 months and older. However, public trust in health leaders is at an all-time low, according to the Pew Research Center.