ESCANABA — As the summer winds down, the virus responsible for COVID-19 is still hanging on in Escanaba.According to the Sentinel Wastewater Epidemiology Evaluation Project, the most recent sample from the Escanaba Wastewater Treatment Plant, collected Aug. 5, contained more DNA from the virus than 26% of all samples collected at the site since the city began participating in the program in August 2021.

The Aug. 5 sample represents a solid drop from the next most recent sample collected on July 31, which contained more DNA that 57% of samples, but it is more in line with the sample collected on July 29 (more DNA than 21% of samples) and July 24 (more DNA than 35% of samples).

Looking at the data reported by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), which reports COVID-19 cases identified in healthcare settings, the week of Aug. 3 saw the highest number of reported cases in Delta County this year, with 51 cases reported. That number dropped for the week of Aug. 10, the next data set available, to 25 cases

Because SWEEP data represents the moment a sample is collected and MDHHS’ data is indicative of recorded infections during a week-long period, both datasets suggest there was a spike in infections in late July that has waned but not completely dissipated.

When graphed, the shape of the data from MDHHS for 2024 is very similar to the data from 2023 — both statewide and locally — but things are happening earlier this year than last year.

If the trend continues, the highest infection period for Delta County would likely be in October. Statewide, the peak would be reached in November.

While a good barometer of infections, the data from MDHHS does not reflect cases that are identified through at-home rapid testing.

MDHHS cases may be identified in people who are especially sick with the virus and seek medical treatment or in individuals who are tested for COVID-19 as a routine part of other medical care.

For the week of Aug. 10, the infection data for the Upper Peninsula from MDHHS is as follows:

Gogebic – 6

Ontonagon – 0

Houghton – 19

Keweenaw – 4

Iron – 6

Baraga – 7

Dickinson – 7

Marquette – 22

Menominee – 3

Delta – 25

Alger – 1

Schoolcraft – 3

Luce – 2

Mackinac – 0

Chippewa – 4