According to the latest data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), COVID-19 testing positivity, hospitalizations, and deaths have shown a decline across the country for the week of October 29 to November 4. However, there are some states experiencing a rise in cases and hospitalizations.

As health officials had warned of a potential surge in new cases during the winter months, also known as respiratory season, the CDC's map highlights the states where the virus is on the rise. This period typically sees an increase in respiratory diseases, such as flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Among the states reporting a rise in new COVID-19 hospitalizations, Nebraska has seen the largest increase, with a 57.3 percent rise compared to the previous week. Texas, New Mexico, and Kansas also witnessed an increase of 20 percent or more in new hospitalizations compared to the prior week.

Alabama experienced a 19.1 percent increase, while Mississippi and Wyoming recorded increases of 17.2 percent and 17.9 percent, respectively.

The CDC map also highlights the regions with the highest rise in COVID-19 testing positivity. Region 9, consisting of California, Arizona, and Nevada, reported a 7.1 percent increase in COVID-19 testing positivity for the week ending on November 4, compared to the previous week.

Despite these local increases, the overall number of new COVID-19 hospitalizations has seen an 8 percent decline from the previous week, with over 14,000 new hospitalizations reported for the week ending November 4.

The CDC anticipates that this year's hospitalization numbers from COVID-19, RSV, and flu will be similar to last year. However, due to the ongoing pandemic, the total hospitalizations are expected to be higher than pre-pandemic levels.

It is important for individuals to continue practicing preventive measures, such as wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and washing hands frequently, to help mitigate the spread of the virus as the respiratory season progresses.

As the situation continues to evolve, health officials and authorities are closely monitoring the rising trends and implementing strategies to combat the spread of COVID-19 in affected states.