Can you do self-insemination at home ?
Just when we thought it might be safe to venture outside again (with masks and appropriate social distancing), and possibly reconnect with friends thanks to our vaccines (I received my single-dose shot last Saturday and have two weeks until I’m fully vaccinated), a fourth wave of COVID-19 is striking the U.S. This news is enough to heighten anxiety as we navigate the reopening process.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported over 64,000 new COVID cases in the last week, with a concerning 20% of those being children, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). After a brief decline in cases about two weeks ago, daily new cases are now around 10,000. This surge is being led by states such as New York—especially New York City—Michigan, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania, which is throwing off my mood completely.
So, why are COVID cases on the rise in the U.S.?
Even with 46 states preparing to open vaccine eligibility to individuals aged 16 and older by May 1, health officials are urging continued caution. While 19% of the U.S. population is fully vaccinated and 33% have received at least one dose, cases are increasing in half of the states. The AAP also noted that over 3.4 million children have tested positive for COVID-19 as of April 1, with around 64,000 new cases reported in just the prior week.
One contributing factor to this rise in infections is the emergence of COVID variants. Many of these new strains, like B.1.1.7 first identified in the UK, are more transmissible and virulent. The CDC indicates that this strain accounts for about 13% of new cases in Florida and 9% in New Jersey.
Unfortunately, part of the problem lies in the behavior of individuals—yes, I mean people, including state leaders. Some states (looking at you, Texas, Wyoming, Montana, Mississippi, North Dakota, and Iowa) have rolled back restrictions and stopped mandating masks in public. Additionally, due to misplaced “vaccine optimism,” many unvaccinated individuals are beginning to gather indoors and neglecting masks and social distancing.
Should we be concerned about this fourth wave? Yes, absolutely.
When CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky expressed feelings of “impending doom” during a White House briefing, we should all take heed. She noted, “We have so much to look forward to, so much promise and potential, but right now, I’m scared.”
Time is of the essence because the longer it takes to vaccinate the population, the more likely we are to see a significant fourth wave rather than smaller surges. With over 2 million vaccinations being administered daily in the U.S., we are progressing faster than many countries, but until we achieve herd immunity—something many experts now doubt will happen—it’s still risky.
“What we have seen before is that things really have a tendency to surge and to surge big,” Dr. Walensky warned. “For the health of our country, we must work together now to prevent a fourth surge.”
What Can We Do?
You already know the drill. Avoid non-essential outings. Wear a mask that covers both your nose and mouth. Maintain safe social distance. Wash your hands frequently. Refrain from touching your face. Stay away from crowded and poorly ventilated spaces. If you meet others, do so outdoors. Get vaccinated, and isolate yourself if you experience any symptoms of COVID-19.
It’s been over a year, and I understand the fatigue. We’re all tired of being cooped up—whether it’s from staying inside or the outside being the only way to connect with those outside our immediate circle. We all long for the days before the pandemic and resent the “new normal.”
We want to socialize, send our kids back to school, and even have a little personal space from our spouses. I know the struggle is real, but let’s hold on just a bit longer. Perhaps we can finally emerge from this tunnel instead of having the exit yanked away once more.
For more insights, check out one of our other blog posts here. Also, if you’re looking for expert information, this site is a great resource. For comprehensive guidance on pregnancy and home insemination, visit this excellent resource.
Related Searches:
- home insemination methods
- self insemination tips
- how to use a home insemination kit
- success rates of home insemination
- home insemination safety
Summary:
The fourth wave of COVID-19 is significantly impacting young people, with a rise in cases reported in children. Despite vaccine rollouts, caution is still necessary as variants spread and behaviors that disregard safety protocols contribute to the surge. Experts emphasize the importance of continued vigilance to prevent further outbreaks.