Officials: COVID-19 has hit high levels in several states, including Connecticut

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Officials with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) say there is evidence that the COVID-19 virus has hit high levels in at least eight states, including Connecticut. The evidence is based on testing done at wastewater treatment sites. Connecticut is considered to have "high viral activity" based on testing completed at five wastewater sites in the state. Officials tell News 12 the latest subvariant called FLiRT is driving up cases. "If you're traveling this summer and you're going to be away for a period of time, take some home Covid tests with you," says Dr. Asha Shah, Director of infectious diseases at Stamford Health. Shah describes FLiRT as very contagious but not alarming. She added the illness can lead to people being hospitalized with symptoms such as shortness of breath or feeling weak, but patients do not tend to need intensive care. "If you are high risk for severe disease, take a mask with you," Shah acknowledged. "Make sure you're aware what the ventilation status is. What's nice about the summer is we can do things outdoors. The outdoors is safe." "