COVID levels are climbing across Contra Costa County, and updated vaccines targeting the dominant variant could reach Walnut Creek pharmacies within weeks.
County health data released Friday, Sept. 4, show a spike in local wastewater readings. The California Department of Public Health has said summer and fall increases in COVID activity have occurred every year since 2020. Contra Costa County Supervisor John Gioia shared the update, urging residents to stay vigilant as fall approaches.
Wastewater numbers reported by Patch on Aug. 25 showed a more than 250% increase in West Contra Costa during the latest 21-day period. Central Contra Costa saw a 64% rise. Pittsburg, Antioch and Bay Point recorded a 92% jump. The Bay Area overall was up 37%.
No wastewater breakdown specific to Walnut Creek was available.
Despite the growth in infection rates, hospital and emergency department visits remained low compared to past years, according to CDC data as of early September.
Updated vaccines approved for high-risk groups
The FDA approved updated 2026-27 COVID vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna and Novavax-Sanofi on Aug. 27, according to Patient Care Online. All target the dominant XFG variant, Patch reported. Pfizer-BioNTech said shipping of its Comirnaty XFG formula began immediately after approval, according to Patient Care Online.
The shots are approved for adults 65 and older and for people under 65 with at least one underlying condition that raises their risk of severe illness. Qualifying conditions include asthma, diabetes, obesity, heart or lung disease and pregnancy.
The vaccines were expected to arrive at California pharmacies and doctors' offices later in September. Contra Costa Health has not confirmed local availability as of Sept. 4.
The CDC has not issued formal vaccination recommendations for the 2026-27 season. That gap creates uncertainty about whether private insurance will cover the updated shots. Medicare Part B covers FDA-approved COVID vaccines with no copay when administered by a participating provider.
Residents without insurance can schedule an appointment at a Contra Costa Health immunization clinic by calling 925-608-5350. People with appointments are prioritized.
Masking order returns in November
Contra Costa County's seasonal respiratory masking order for higher-risk healthcare facilities, including hospitals and nursing homes, will take effect in November. The county has not announced an exact start date.
Contra Costa Health said summer travel, more indoor gatherings during hot weather and fading immunity all contribute to increased transmission. The county health officer noted that receiving COVID and flu vaccines at the same time remains safe for most people.
CDPH Director and State Public Health Officer Dr. Erica Pan urged vaccination in an Aug. 25 statement as the summer surge began. "As COVID-19 activity rises each summer, and our kids are getting back to school, getting vaccinated is one of the strongest ways we can protect our families and keep our communities thriving," Pan said.
Walnut Creek residents who want the updated shot can check with their pharmacy or doctor's office for availability, or call the county clinic line at 925-608-5350 to schedule.
